$Unique_ID{BRK00315}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Anorexia in Teens}
$Subject{anorexia dieting teenager}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Anorexia in Teens


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QUESTION:  With all the recent publicity about the serious consequences of
anorexia in teen ages, I take my responsibilities in a high school health
program very seriously.  Can you give me any idea of how common this type of
behavior is, so that my suspicions won't become exaggerated?

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ANSWER:  It is common enough for you to stay on guard, according to at least
one study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association a year
or two back.  The activity of abnormal purging behavior was reported in 13% of
1700 tenth grade high school students.  Purging takes three forms, vomiting
which is the most frequently reported, the use of laxatives, and the use of
water pills or diuretics.  It is more frequent in girls, who outnumber the
boys by a 2 to 1 margin.  This type of behavior was found in teenagers who
were preoccupied with their weight.  They were "calorie counters" who dieted
frequently and suffered from pangs of guilt whenever they felt they had over
eaten.  Because of peer pressure as well as the styles of society, many of
youths maintain normal weight levels in unhealthy ways, and are at risk of
becoming true anorectics if not probably counseled and advised.  These
adolescents are at a crucial point in their lives when they must establish
rational goals based upon knowledge obtained from their education.  A program
which teaches the basics of nutrition, and establishes guidelines for
appropriate levels of weight, encourages exercise, and provides the
information necessary to distinguish between healthy and harmful reducing
methods can be an effective method in overcoming the development of eating
disorders.  Your participation and concern for your students, may be just the
influence that may avoid a disaster from occurring either now or later in
life.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
