Factors Associated with the Risk of Eating Disorders

Objective: To analyze factors associated with the risk of Eating Disorders (EDs), like the Mediterranean diet adherence, physical activity and weight status, in participants between 12 and 20 years old; and to obtain data of prevalence of risk of developing an ED. Methods: 1342 adolescents were selected from educational centers on Gran Canaria, Spain. The sampling technique was sampling by clusters, and the sample unit was the classroom. Risk of EDs was measured by EAT-40 questionnaire. Sociodemographic variables, weight status, physical activity, and adherence to Mediterranean diet were also evaluated. To evaluate the associated factors of EAT, positive test logistic regression analyses were used, controlling for confounding variables. Results: The prevalence of risk of ED was 27.42% (33% of girls, 20.6% of boys). The following variables were associated with an increased risk of developing an ED: excess weight versus normal weight (OR = 2,32; 95% CI: 1.58- 3.41), a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet versus a high adherence (OR=1.77; 95% CI: 1.06-2.94), a good level of physical activity versus a moderate level (OR=1.790; 95% CI: 1.08-2.96), and have been on diet in the past year (OR=5.97; 95% CI: 4.12-8.66). Conclusion: The prevalence of risk of ED in Gran Canaria is especially high compared to other national and international studies. A high adherence to Mediterranean diet and a moderate level of physical activity attenuate the risk of ED in adolescents.