ANOREXIA-NERVOSA - NO EVIDENCE OF AN INCREASE

Background. This paper examines the evidence that rates of anorexia ne rvosa have increased over time. Method. Epidemiological studies that h ave provided time trends in incidence rates in specific countries or p sychiatric registers and prevalence surveys were reviewed to assess wh ether or not prevalence estimates are higher in the most recent studie s. Results. Estimated trends in incidence rates showed an increase but no study ruled out plausible alternative explanations. Studies showin g no upward trend were as numerous and were generally based on larger samples. Analysis of 29 cross-sectional surveys conducted over the las t 25 years indicated that the median prevalence rate was 1.3 per 1000 females. There was no indication that more recent surveys yielded high er prevalence rates. Conclusion. Anorexia nervosa remains a rare disor der and there is no evidence of a secular increase in its incidence.