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Review
. 2009;11(1):100-3.
doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2009.11.1/kahalmi.

Anorexia nervosa: an increasing problem in children and adolescents

Katherine A Halmi  1
Affiliations
Review

Anorexia nervosa: an increasing problem in children and adolescents

Katherine A Halmi. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2009.

Abstract
in English, Spanish, French

Information from eating disorder clinics across five continents suggests that anorexia nervosa is becoming an increasing problem in children and young adolescents. There is some indication that anxiety disorders in childhood may be a major risk factor for the development of anorexia nervosa. Early recognition and family treatment for this disorder are essential to prevent chronic impairment.

La información procedente de las clínicas de trastornos del comer a través de los cinco continentes sugiere que la anorexia nerviosa constituye un problema creciente en niños y adolescentes menores. Existen ciertos indicios de que los trastornos de ansíedad en la niñez puedan constituír un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de una anorexía nerviosa. El reconocimiento precoz y el tratamiento familiar de este trastorno son esenciales para prevenir el deterioro crónico.

D'après les données cliniques de cinq continents sur les troubles alimentaires, l'anorexie mentale est un problème croissant chez les enfants et les jeunes adolescents. Les troubles anxieux de l'enfance pourraient être un fadeur de risque majeur pour le développement de ce trouble. L'indentification précoce et une prise en charge thérapeutique familiale sont indispensables pour éviter sa chronicisation.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. Mean length of stay for first admissions, 1984-1998.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.. Median discharge body mass index in anorexia nervosa patients 1984-1998.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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