It’s Eating Disorders Awareness Week, making it the perfect time to shine a light on these serious conditions. A lack of education about eating disorders negatively impacts the effectiveness of care and treatment, making awareness crucial.

Eating disorders affect more people than many realize. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (2024), approximately 9% of the U.S. population—around 28 million people—will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. The lifetime prevalence rate is estimated to be 8.60% among females and 4.07% among males. Alarmingly, the organization also reports that every 52 minutes, one person loses their life as a direct consequence of an eating disorder.

These statistics highlight the urgent need for better education and awareness. By increasing understanding, we can help improve early detection, treatment accessibility, and ultimately, save lives.

What are eating disorders and how important is early detection

Eating disorders are serious behavioral conditions marked by persistent disturbances in eating habits, often accompanied by distressing thoughts and emotions. These disorders can lead to severe physical, psychological, and social consequences. Common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), other specified feeding and eating disorders (OSFED), pica, and rumination disorder (APA, 2023).

Early detection plays a crucial role in improving prognosis and treatment outcomes. The sooner the signs of an eating disorder are identified, the more manageable and treatable the condition becomes (Kalindjian et al., 2021). An article published by The Balance Eating Disorders Treatment Center further emphasizes this, as Kiyici (2022) highlights that early intervention can significantly reduce and prevent the severe physical complications associated with eating disorders. When left untreated for extended periods, these conditions can become increasingly complex and difficult to manage. Given that the average age of onset is between 18 and 24 years old, recognizing the signs early can be particularly challenging without proper guidance and support.

Signs to look out for

Recognizing some of these early warning signs is of vital importance to get the right help at the right time and minimize the effects of the disorder. To begin with, the NEDA, (2025), lists some of the early behavioral, emotional, and physical signs:

• Behavioral
  • Changes in eating behaviors
  • Eating limited to certain textures of food
  • Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws in appearance
  • Withdrawal from friends and avoiding eating in public with others.
  • Isolating and secretive.
• Emotional
  • Preoccupation with weight loss, food, calories, dieting, etc.
  • Extreme concern with body size and shape.
  • Experience of shame, guild, and despair after eating.
  • Low self-esteem.
  • Fear of choking or vomiting.
• Physical
  • Significant weight fluctuations both up and down.
  • Gastrointestinal issues complaints.
  • Dizzy when standing.
  • Finds it difficult to sleep or concentrate.
  • Issues with dental, skin, hair, and/or nail health.

Barriers to early intervention and detection.

Seeking help for an eating disorder isn’t always easy—even when the warning signs are recognized. Many barriers prevent individuals from reaching out, with stigma being one of the most significant. Unfortunately, stigma has long been a challenge not just for eating disorders, but for many physical and mental health conditions. Research confirms that stigma is one of the biggest obstacles to accessing care, as well as the willingness to seek help (National Eating Disorders Collaboration, 2023). Many people feel ashamed due to harmful misconceptions, such as the false belief that eating disorders are simply a choice. Breaking this stigma is crucial to ensuring that those who need support can get the care they deserve.

Another major barrier is a lack of education about eating disorders. Many people struggle to recognize the signs in themselves or others, making it difficult to take action. Even when the signs are clear, individuals often hesitate to seek help because they don’t know where to begin. If you or someone you know is struggling, a great first step is reaching out to a general practitioner (GP) who can guide you toward the right support and treatment (National Eating Disorders Collaboration, 2023).

This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let’s commit to learning more and spreading awareness. By educating ourselves and others, we can break down barriers, challenge stigma, and empower those in need to seek help. Knowing when and how to act can make all the difference.