Premorbid BMI predicts binge-purge symptomatology among individuals with anorexia nervosa

Lantz, E. L., Gillberg, C. , Råstam, M., Wentz, E. and Lowe, M. R. (2017) Premorbid BMI predicts binge-purge symptomatology among individuals with anorexia nervosa. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 50(7), pp. 852-855. (doi: 10.1002/eat.22718) (PMID:28432804)

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Abstract

Objective: A finding consistent with the transdiagnostic approach to eating disorders is that about half of those with restricting anorexia nervosa (AN) eventually undergo a transition to the binge/purge (BP) subtype or to bulimia nervosa. Given evidence that individuals with bulimic symptoms exhibit elevated weights premorbidly, we tested the hypothesis that among those with AN, highest premorbid BMI would predict which individuals with AN would develop AN‐BP. Method: The current study used longitudinal data from a community sample of adolescents with AN in Sweden. Premorbid weights were obtained from growth charts, and participants were re‐assessed at 6, 10, and 18 years after first presentation with AN. Results: A greater highest premorbid BMI z score predicted a greater likelihood of developing binge/purge symptoms over 18 years. Discussion: Among individuals who develop an eating disorder, premorbid BMI may be implicated in the type and course of the eating disorder that emerges.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:The original study’s data collection was supported by the Swedish Research Council (K2006-21X-20048-01-2), government grants under the ALF Agreement on Medical Education and Research, Knut and Alice Wallenberg’s Foundation, the Soderstrom Konigska Nursing Home Foundation, the Swedish Medical Society, and the Goteborg Freemasons.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Gillberg, Professor Christopher
Authors: Lantz, E. L., Gillberg, C., Råstam, M., Wentz, E., and Lowe, M. R.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
Journal Name:International Journal of Eating Disorders
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0276-3478
ISSN (Online):1098-108X
Published Online:22 April 2017

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