Eating Disorders: Some Facts
There are no national statistics available on the prevalence of eating disorders in Ireland. However, it is widely documented that eating disorders most commonly appear in adolescent girls and young women in their early 20's. Recent studies suggest an increased incidence among males and among children.
Anorexia Nervosa
Affecting 20,000 to 40,000 people in the Republic of Ireland, its most overt sign is the drive for thinness through self-starvation and excessive exercise.
Bulimia Nervosa
Affects 40,000 to 60,000 people in the Republic of Ireland and is characterised by episodes of binge eating, that is eating large quantities of food in a short time. Statistics also show that 14-15% of female secondary and college students are affected.
Binge Eating Disorder
A person may also suffer from Binge Eating Disorder. This has some features in common with Bulimia Nervosa where there are recurrent episodes of binge eating. However, there is a noted absence of vomiting and laxative and diuretic abuse. People suffering from this disorder are thought to constitute about 20% of those who present for the treatment of obesity.