Unique features of under-recognised eating disorder groups
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Beyond the stereotypes: characterising the unique features of under-researched eating disorder populations, and implications for treatment
IRAS ID
236048
Contact name
Emma Kinnaird
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Eating disorders are a range of conditions affecting up to 16% of the general population. Although a range of treatments have been developed for EDs, 50% of individuals with an ED develop a severe and enduring illness. Patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) exhibit particularly poor outcomes compared to other EDs: AN has the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders, and treatment resistance presents a serious ongoing challenge.
The idea that EDs are a female illness is reflected in the evidence base for treatments: the vast majority of trials and studies have used primarily female samples. In addition, clinicians have reported problems when applying these treatments to patients with comorbid conditions. Consequently, there has been increasing recognition that these under-recognised populations of ED patients may have unique features not previously addressed by ED research, that may result in specific treatment needs not currently reflected in treatment approaches. There is particular interest in two previously under-recognised groups with known implications for treatment: men with EDs, and individuals with comorbid AN and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study aims to use qualitative research to explore the possibility of specialised treatments for these groups, contributing towards the research and development of clinical pathways with the potential to have a significant, highly translational impact on the way in which these populations are understood and treated.
Women with AN, individuals with comorbid AN/ASD and their carers, men with any ED and their carers, and individuals with ASD will be eligible for the study. Participants will be interviewed by the researcher, either individually or in a focus group. Participants with AN only, AN/ASD, and ASD only will also be invited to fill out an online questionnaire. Recruitment will be from the community and clinical services.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0050
Date of REC Opinion
12 Feb 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion