Can Men Have Eating Disorders?
Though many people associate
eating disorders with women, these illnesses also occur in men. An estimated 5 percent to 15 percent of people with
anorexia or
bulimia, and an estimated 35 percent of those with
binge-eating disorder, are male. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that incidence and prevalence rates are increasing among males.
Characteristics of Eating Disorders in Men
Many boys with eating disorders share the same characteristics as their female counterparts, including low self-esteem, the need to be accepted, an inability to cope with emotional pressures, and family and relationship issues.
Males with eating disorders are most commonly seen in specific subgroups. For instance, males who wrestle show a disproportionate increase in eating disorders -- rates 7 to 10 times higher than normal. In addition, homosexual males have an increased rate of eating disorders.
Prognosis of Men With Eating Disorders
Eating disorders in men most often surface during the teen years, but in rare cases, men as old as 60 and boys as young as eight can be affected. In both sexes, the illnesses can lead to lifelong medical and psychological complications. An estimated 6 percent of cases result in death.
Most people find it difficult to halt the behavior without professional assistance. Although some men ultimately seek help, many continue to live with the disorders, often for years, and sometimes for a decade or more.
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