Disordered Eating During Adolescence Predicts Later Health Problems

Problems with eating or weight during adolescence may lead to a higher-than-normal risk of health problems later in life, according to physicians at Columbia University. Adolescents from two counties in New York, first interviewed at a mean age of 13.8 years, then followed up after 5 to 8 years, had increased incidences of anxiety disorder, cardiovascular symptoms, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and other disorders. Those with eating disorders had increased incidences of infectious diseases, insomnia, and neurologic symptoms. A higher-than-expected number had attempted suicide as young adults. Only 22% of the adolescents diagnosed with eating disorders had received prior psychotherapy (Arch Gen Psychiatry 2002;59:545).