Investigating the Prevalence of Eating Disorders, Factors Contributing to Eating Disorders and Weight Control Methods: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Residents of Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Eating disorders significantly affect quality of life, body image, self-esteem, and relationships. Previous studies have mainly focused on Western populations, leaving a gap in our understanding of the cultural, social, and environmental factors in non-western populations. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence of eating disorders and its risk factors and examine the common methods for weight control used by affected individuals within the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: Recognizing the importance of understanding the landscape of eating disorders in this population, we used diagnostic criteria from the validated Arabic version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to assess the severity and patterns of eating disorders. Data were collected remotely over one year using a self-administered questionnaire distributed at schools, colleges, parks, and malls. The questionnaire covered demographics, weight control methods, and diagnostic criteria. This study included 404 undiagnosed cases (n = 404) to provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence and severity of eating disorders in this region. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Of the participants, 12 (2.9%) reported having a diagnosed eating disorder, and the severity levels varied across different disorders. Anorexia nervosa exhibited predominantly moderate severity (264, 65.3%), with lower percentages classified as low (119, 29.5%) or high severity (21, 5.2%). Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder demonstrated a varied distribution, with 131 (32.4%) classified as high severity, whereas bulimia nervosa was predominantly of low severity (242, 59.9%). Binge eating disorders were observed in a significant proportion of patients with moderate severity (203, 50.2%). Conclusion: There is an urgent need for heightened awareness, early detection, and intervention strategies tailored to the diverse spectrum of eating disorders in this region. Furthermore, understanding common methods that affect individuals' utilization of food and the severity and distribution of different disorders provides valuable insights into tailored interventions and support systems that promote healthier relationships between food and body image within the community.

Keywords: diet; diet adherence; diet patterns; eating behavior; health behaviour.

Figure 1. Severity of different eating disorders