Prevalence and Beliefs Regarding Eating Disorders among General Population of Pakistan

 

The prevalence and incidence of eating disorders are increasing day by day and millions of individuals are suffering from this disease. Poor eating habits, socio-cultural variables, economic status and common misconceptions are leading risk factors for these disorders8. These disorders are further linked with the development of mental disorders like depression and anxiety which leads to life-threatening consequences. Some of the eating disorders lead to obesity which is itself a global epidemic. Lack of screening programs, inadequate standard practices and poor awareness of eating disorders are not only delaying the diagnosis but are also compromising the quality of life of the people. Pakistan ranks 9th out of 188 countries in terms of obesity, so this shows an increased risk of development of eating disorders in the Pakistani population. Eating disorders are linked with social taboos which need to be addressed in Pakistan. There is a dire need to screen the community and assess the beliefs of the community regarding eating disorders. Therefore, the current research was conducted by team of EDAOP to assess the prevalence and beliefs of eating disorders among the general population in Pakistan.

The result of the present study concluded that the prevalence of eating disorders was moderate with the risk of developing Anorexia Nervosa being the highest. The perceptions of the community about their weight and shape were negative and associated with societal taboos. Most of the respondents complained about having slight to moderate anxiety/depression along with pain/discomfort and had poor beliefs regarding eating disorders. An eating disorder is a social taboo which is least discussed in our society. Therefore, massive awareness campaigns must be launched for awareness of the community about the importance of early diagnosis and screening. Key opinion leaders and stake holders should contribute to effective screening methods and management of eating disorders in Pakistan.

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