Eating Disorders: How Can It Be Detected?

Abstract

Introduction

Disorders of eating behavior can affect all people regardless of socioeconomicor cultural situation. More common in females (90-95 %), has its peak incidencein adolescence. These are processes that can subtly start and go unnoticed atfirst.

Objectives

To analyze the clinical, epidemiological, diagnostic approach of the disorder, evolution and treatment of disordered eating behavior.

Methods

Review of the subject and recent articles on eating behavior disorders inPsychiatric guides and magazines.

Results

The eating behavior disorders arise as a result of three factors: predisposing, precipitating and perpetuating. We must take into account the genetics andfamily history, dissatisfaction with body weight resulting in a restriction ofdiet and multi-disciplinary consequences of this disorder (physical, psychological and social) asperpetuating factors. We consider the coexistence of comorbidity betweendisordered eating behavior and personality disorders, mood disorders(depression) and disorders of impulse control.

Conclusions

Eating behavior disorders represent a major health problem that threatens thepatient's life. Very important is the rapid detection of the same and theestablishment of treatment. Treatment should be multidisciplinary with thepatient and family, providing information on the approach to the patient, takinginto account the lack of awareness of disease that often exists in patients.