FUTURE-DIRECTIONS IN OBESITY AND EATING DISORDERS

The purpose of this article is to explore future directions in the tre atment of obesity and eating disorders. After briefly reviewing the co sts of eating disorders, in terms of morbidity, mortality, and economi cs, we provide suggestions for future research and treatment. We first focus on changes that should be considered to improve etiological and outcome research, with the idea that a better understanding of etiolo gical factors will lead to better interventions. We then examine promi sing treatment approaches, public health initiatives, and the importan ce of focusing on health and self-acceptance as valid treatment outcom es.