Information and Statistics

The UK has the highest rate of eating disorders in Europe and also of self-harm. Exact figures are hard to know. Those quoted in studies etc are only the tip of the iceburg and one must differentiate between figures for those receiving treatment as opposed to those suffering.

Recent figures suggest that 1 in100 women has a clinically diagnosed eating disorder (approx 269 thousand females in Eng and Wales alone) and over half have a 'serious issue with food' that wouldn't be clinically diagnosed but causes them significant trouble. Estimates vary, but between 11 and 13 million people in this country have psychological issues or problems connected with food that often leaves them in effect on a permanent diet.  1/4 of adults admit they feel guilty after eating.  1/4 of adults also say that they think they would be happier if they were thinner (when in fact they are not overweight).  6/10 women say they cannot stand the way they look and only 1 in 25 is totally happy with their body.  1 in 6 women and 1 in 10 men regularly skip meals in an attempt to control their weight.

Eating disorders can affect people of all ages and backgrounds EDA has supported sufferers aged from 8 - 70 years

Hospital admissions

3800 people under 18 admitted to hospital with eating disorders in the past 4 years. Cases in that time increased by almost 10%. 270 boys and 163 girls under 10 included.

Girls as young as 7 have anorexia and have been treated at Great Ormond Street hospital http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/5360768.stm