Data Trends 2023: Eating Disorders

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Research focused on eating disorders in active-duty service members and veterans is expanding, with recent studies finding significantly high rates of disordered eating behaviors in these populations.^29,30 Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder are some of the most common among veterans, with increased diuretic use and excessive exercise compared with civilians.^30,31 Pressure to meet certain weight requirements during active duty has a large impact on this issue, with many service members reporting disordered behaviors used to make weight.³² Future research should investigate the effect of military-related trauma on the development of eating disorders.²⁹

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