The rising prevalence of comorbid obesity and eating disorder behaviors from 1995 to 2005

Abstract

Objective: To measure the cooccurrence of obesity and eating disorder (ED)behaviors in the South Australian population and assess the change in level from 1995 to 2005.

Method: Two independent cross-sectional single stage interview based population surveys were conducted a decade apart. Self-reported height, weight, ED behaviors, and sociodemographics were assessed. Changes between the two time points were analyzed.

Results: From 1995 to 2005 the population prevalence of comorbid obesity and ED behaviors increased from 1 to 3.5%. Comorbid obesity and ED behaviors increased more (prevalence odds ratio (POR) 5 4.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 5 95% CI 5 [2.8, 7.4]; p\.001) than either obesity (POR 5 1.6; 95% CI 5 [1.3, 2.0]; p \ .001) or ED behaviors (POR 5 3.1; 95% CI 5 [2.3, 4.1]; p\.001) alone.

Discussion: Comorbid obesity and ED behaviors are an increasing problem in our society. Prevention and treatments efforts for obesity and EDs must consider and address this increasing comorbidity.