Systematic review of the epidemiology of eating disorders in the Arab world

Bernou Melisse*, Eric Van Furth, Hans W. Hoek

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of reviewThe Arab world is dealing with modernization and sociocultural changes both associated with eating disorders. The present review provides an update of 'Eating disorders in the Arab world: A literature review', which was published in 2020.Recent findingsThere are 22 recent epidemiological studies on eating disorders in five different countries in the Arab world. A large-scale national mental health survey reported a 12-month eating disorder prevalence of 3.2% and an eating disorder lifetime prevalence of 6.1%. Binge-eating disorder was the most common eating disorder (12-month prevalence=2.1%, lifetime prevalence=2.6%), 1.6% was at high risk for binge-eating disorder. Overall, between 23.8 and 34.8% was at high risk for any eating disorder. Body-shape dissatisfaction, a high BMI and separated/widowed/single marital status were associated with eating disorder pathology.SummaryAlthough there is still a lack of studies compared to the western world, the number of epidemiological studies on eating disorders in the Arab world is growing and there is an increase in studies using appropriate assessment-Tools and norms. It is recommended to offer specialized treatment and to implement preventive programs.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)388-396
Number of pages9
JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychiatry
Volume37
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2024

Keywords

  • anorexia nervosa
  • Arab world
  • binge-eating disorder
  • bulimia nervosa
  • eating disorders
  • epidemiology
  • prevalence

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