Illness goes through the stomach

IKK Südwest alarmed: Women are three times more likely to be affected by eating disorders than men

24/05/2011

Eating disorders are among the most common psychosomatic diseases, reports the Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA). In a recent evaluation, the IKK Südwest has found that women are generally affected by this disease almost three times as often as men. This applies to both inpatient and outpatient treatment. „Although our case numbers did not increase significantly, the proportion of our female insured persons has remained at a high level for years“, explains IKK health adviser Eva-Maria Haas, „This shows us that there is still need for action in this area.“

It is striking that the majority of the disease appears in over-20s and is usually treated on an outpatient basis (4473 cases in 2009). Especially in this age group, the extraordinary proportion of women is clearly shown: more than three times as many women (3,482) as men (991) were receiving medical treatment in 2009.

By contrast, the proportion of children aged 12 years and under-age treated due to an eating disorder has decreased slightly. „In this age group, parents and educators should be extra special“, warns Eva-Maria Haas, „The figures show: After all, around every 600th of our insured is a child between one and 12 years, suffering from an eating disorder“.

Eating disorders are commonly referred to as „disturbed relationship with food and one's own body“ define. They can express themselves differently. Essentially, according to the BZgA, there are three main types: anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder. All eating disorders can merge or alternate. Anorexia nervosa develops bulimia in about 20 percent of cases.

„Bulimia can often keep those affected secret for years“, says IKK health consultant Eva-Maria Haas. „This makes it especially difficult for relatives and doctors to recognize the disease and offer help.“ In general, a lack of disease insight in anorexia and bulimia is a very big problem and complicates the treatment or therapeutic success.

Eating disorders have serious health, psychological and social consequences. Therefore, warning signs should be observed and conspicuous eating habits should be clarified at all ages. Sometimes an organic cause can be the cause. In children, regular check-ups at the pediatrician provide good control. Patients and family members will receive further information from the IKK health advisors Eva-Maria Haas, Tel. 0 61 31/28 22-287, and Marie-Louise Conen, Tel. 06 51/94 83-138. (Pm)

Image: Claudia Hautumm