Dying to be Thin

Eating disorders are a lot deadlier than you might think. In fact, people who suffer from these disorders are at a much higher risk of dying early. This is especially true for those with anorexia nervosa. But why is this happening and what can be done to fix it? Let's talk about the numbers. Between 2010 and October 2024, a lot of studies were done and the results are clear. People with eating disorders have a much higher chance of dying early. In fact, the risk is over three times higher than the general population. Anorexia nervosa is the most deadly. People with this disorder are over five times more likely to die early. Eating disorders not otherwise specified come in second at around two and a half times the risk. Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder also increase the risk, but not as much. These numbers are shocking. But they are also a call to action. We need to figure out why these disorders are so deadly and how we can stop it. One big factor is probably the lack of early intervention and treatment. Eating disorders are often not taken as seriously as they should be, leading to delayed treatment. Another factor is the stigma surrounding eating disorders. People may avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment. We need to do better. We need to educate people about the seriousness of eating disorders. We need to make treatment more accessible. We need to destigmatize these disorders. Researchers have a huge role to play too. They need to keep studying these disorders. They need to find out what makes them so deadly and how we can stop it. Let's think critically about this. What can we do in our daily lives to help? How can we support someone with an eating disorder? How can we make sure they get the help they need?