Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health
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Social patterning of disordered eating from childhood to young adult age

Approved: 2012

Collaborators:

  • Prof Ilona Koupil
  • Prof Gita Mishra
  • Ms Amy Heshmati
  • Dr Jennie Ahren

Synopsis

Disordered eating (binge eating) and severe dieting is increasingly common among young women. Earlier research from the ALSWH showed that risk factors for eating disorders are present across a range of ethnic groups with Australian-born women being at a slightly higher risk than foreign born. We will study how disordered eating and dieting in childhood, adolescence and young adult age is influenced by women’s social background, place of residence (urban or rural), education and income. If disordered eating is more common or more persistent in certain social groups, it is important to take this into account when planning interventions.