Eating disorders can affect any teen

British researchers have found that teenagers from lower income backgrounds may face a higher risk of developing eating disorders than those from more financially comfortable families.

According to the study teenagers whose parents had not attended university were 25% more likely to develop an eating disorder.  These conditions include anorexia bulimia and binge eating disorder.

Study links Background to eating disorder risk

The researchers also found that children of parents with above average incomes appeared to have a lower risk of developing these mental health conditions.

However other measures of social and economic status such as parents’ jobs financial difficulties or receiving government support did not show the same clear and consistent link with eating disorder symptoms.

Eating disorders can affect anyone

Experts from University College London (UCL) warned that viewing eating disorders as a problem mainly affecting middle class or wealthy people could lead to some young people being overlooked.

Dr Nora Trompeter the lead author and an expert in eating disorders among teenagers said eating disorders are often seen as conditions linked to wealth and privilege.

However the research suggests the reality is more complicated. She stressed that eating disorders can affect people regardless of their family income or educational background.

Failing to recognize this could delay diagnosis and treatment for teenagers who need help.