Study: Half a million people in the U.S. suffer from eating disorders

A recent study published by the journal Archives of General Psychiatry reveals that more than half a million U.S. teens have had an eating disorder.

Researchers found that binge-eating disorders were the most common eating disorder that affected teens between ages 13 to 18. The study examined more than 10,000 individuals.

Furthermore, less than one percent had experienced bulimia, while 0.3 percent suffered from anorexia at one point during their lifetime. Researchers found that overall, 3 percent had a lifetime prevalence of one the disorders. Another 3 percent of participants had troubling symptoms but not a full-fledged eating disorder.

The study also revealed that more than half of those who had an eating disorder suffered from depression, anxiety or some other mental condition. Significant numbers of suicidal thoughts and attempts were found.

Therapeutic boarding schools may assist in motivating teens to make healthier lifestyle choices. Parent involvement may be a crucial tool in helping young people avoid risky behaviors.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 2 percent of individuals in the U.S. suffer from binge eating disorders.