Epidemiology of Anorexia Nervosa in Men: A Study of Finnish Twins
Author Information
Author(s): Raevuori Anu, Hoek Hans W., Susser Ezra, Kaprio Jaakko, Rissanen Aila, Keski-Rahkonen Anna
Primary Institution: Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki
Hypothesis
To examine the epidemiology of anorexia nervosa in men.
Conclusion
Anorexia nervosa in males in the community is more common, transient and accompanied by more substantial comorbidity than previously thought.
Supporting Evidence
- The incidence rate of anorexia nervosa for the presumed peak age of risk (10–24y) was 15.7 per 100,000 person-years.
- All probands had recovered from eating disorders but suffered from substantial psychiatric comorbidity.
- Male co-twins displayed significant dissatisfaction with body musculature.
Takeaway
This study found that anorexia nervosa is more common in boys and young men than we thought, and it often comes with other mental health issues.
Methodology
Men from FinnTwin16 birth cohorts were screened for lifetime eating disorders using a questionnaire and diagnostic interviews.
Potential Biases
Self-reported figures of weight and height might have been biased due to the sensitive nature of these measures.
Limitations
The study had a small number of detected cases and potential self-report bias.
Participant Demographics
Finnish male twins born between 1975 and 1979.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.24%
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.03–0.44%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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