It is estimated that over 28 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. Eating disorders affect Americans of all ages, racial/ethnic backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, body shapes, weights, and socioeconomic statuses. While eating disorders can affect anyone, research has shown that people of color, and gender diverse and transgender individuals are among those least likely to receive a diagnosis or appropriate care. Eating disorders most often appear during the teen years or in young adults, however in recent years there has been an increase in cases among children and older adults.
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW) highlights the seriousness of eating disorders across the United States. The theme for NEDAW 2023 is C.A.R.E (Continue the Conversation. Act Early. Strengthen Recovery. End the Cycle). During the week, OWH encourages organizations, health professionals, and communities to increase awareness of disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, share best practices for improving the quality of care, and engage in conversations about healthy eating and body image.
Source: National Eating Disorders Awareness Week | Office on Women’s Health
