Eating disorders public health problem

In Mexico, about 3% of adolescents of school age have some type of food disorder as the anorexy , bulimia or Binge eating disorder .

In this regard, the federal health secretary, José Ángel Córdova, said: "The problems of the Eating disorder (TCA) must be addressed in a comprehensive and timely manner. Otherwise they can cause serious health problems and even death. "

The federal official said that this type of ailments can be addressed in the Medical Specialty Units in Overweight, Obesity, Cardiovascular Risk and Diabetes (UNEMES -SORyD) that exist in the country, which have specialized personnel to provide personal, focused care and global in which medical, nursing, psychology and nutriology personnel participate.

Córdova Villalobos stressed the need for attention to these health problems; those who suffer have similar limitations to any psychiatric disorder , in addition to hair loss, growth arrest, osteoporosis, gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal paralysis, electrolyte disturbances, dehydration, low potassium and even cardiac arrest or death.

 

Eating disorder in figures

According to the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2006 , the Binge eating disorder it was registered in 8.8% of children and 9.4% of girls, and the loss of control to eat in 4.5 of them and 5.6% of them. However, comprehensive and adequate treatment allows that in the case of anorexy and thebulimia , 50% of patients recover, 30% improve and only 20% are chronic. In this regard, the person in charge of public health in Mexico, stressed that the management of eating disorders has a positive impact on the care of obesity and diabetes, and also improves therapeutic adherence:

"However, it is essential to manage it by different specialists, as well as the participation of the family." Córdova Villalobos, explained that these disorders are serious diseases of biological and emotional basis, as limiting as mental or chronic diseases and occurs mostly in adolescent women.


Video Medicine: Understanding Adult and Pediatric Eating Disorders (March 2024).