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Who is affected by anorexia nervosa
Although anorexia nervosa is not common, affecting only 5 to 10 people out of every 100,000 people, it is a growing problem.1 Anorexia nervosa is more common in industrialized countries, where lack of food is not generally a problem and thinness is prized.
You are more likely to develop anorexia nervosa if you:2
- Are female. Although males can develop anorexia, it is rare. For every 10 females who develop anorexia, approximately 1 male does.
- Are a white adolescent from a Western society, although people all over the world from all races and age groups develop anorexia.
- Participate in sports or work in a profession that
requires a certain body type. Examples include:
- Athletes (such as runners, wrestlers, figure skaters, swimmers, gymnasts, or jockeys).
- Models.
- Ballet dancers.
- Actors.
- Have a sister, brother, or parent who has anorexia.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 29, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine W. Stewart Agras, MD - Psychiatry | |
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