The Facts

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  • 30 million people in the U.S. alone have an eating disorder
  • Eating disorders have the HIGHEST risk of death of any mental illness
  • Eating disorders affect all genders, all races, and every ethnic group
  • 8/10 people with an eating disorder do not seek treatment
  • People with eating disorders often have a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight.
  • Eating disorders can cause a range of physical health problems, such as heart and kidney problems, gastrointestinal issues, and bone loss.
  • Eating disorders can have serious long-term effects on physical and mental health, even after recovery.
  • Eating disorders often co-occur with other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
  • People with eating disorders often have a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight.</li>
  • Eating disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
  • Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are the most common eating disorders.
  • Men and boys can also develop eating disorders, although they are less likely to seek treatment or be diagnosed.
  • Eating disorders affect not only the individual, but also their family and friends.