Eating Disorders in Youth with Chronic Health Conditions: Clinical Strategies for Early Recognition and Prevention

Youth with chronic health conditions face an elevated risk of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. Contributors to this phenomenon may include the unique threats faced by this vulnerable population to their body image, their relationships with food and eating, and their mental health and self-esteem. However, youth with chronic health conditions may also experience more severe medical complications and mortality from eating disorder behaviors because of the additional risks conveyed by their underlying conditions. In this review, clinical strategies are provided to support youth with chronic health conditions through early recognition of eating disorder behaviors and prompt referral to treatment, which is important for a better prognosis. Suggestions are also given to mitigate their risk of developing eating disorders by proactively addressing risk factors and offering thoughtful anticipatory guidance that promotes a positive relationship with food and eating.

Automated summary

Youth with chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of developing eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. This is due to the unique threats they face regarding body image, food and eating, as well as their mental health and self-esteem. Additionally, these youth may experience more severe medical complications and mortality from eating disorder behaviors because of the additional risks posed by their underlying conditions. This review provides clinical strategies to support these youth through early recognition of eating disorder behaviors, prompt referral to treatment, and proactive measures to reduce the risk of developing eating disorders by addressing risk factors and promoting a positive relationship with food and eating.