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Australia Has Highest Rates of Anorexia and Bulimia Globally

Researchers estimate 3.9 million people have anorexia and 14.2 million have bulimia, and they warn cases could keep rising through 2050.

  • A major study published today in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that global cases of anorexia and bulimia have surged 71 per cent over the past 30 years, affecting about 18.1 million people worldwide as of 2023.
  • Australia leads the world with 1,026.5 cases per 100,000 people, though University of Queensland epidemiologist Damian Santomauro noted the high numbers may partially reflect the country's comprehensive survey methodology compared to other nations.
  • Females account for nearly 70 per cent of the 18.1 million global cases, with youth aged 10 to 24 representing about 41 per cent. Researchers cite a "complex interplay" of factors, including increased social media usage, as potential drivers.
  • Butterfly Helpline clinical psychologist Sarah Cox said the study confirms long-standing reports from families and professionals. She emphasized that many people face significant barriers to care, including cost and regional isolation.
  • Actor Celia Imrie recently shared her experience with eating disorder treatment at age 14 to highlight historical challenges. Amid the "rapid growth" in cases, authors are calling for improved prevention, early detection, and increased capacity for evidence-based treatment.
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The study highlights that women account for the majority of the burden, up to 12.6 million affected (70 per cent of the total), compared to 5.5 million men (30 per cent).Anorexia and bulimia already reach girls: “We see cases with nine years of age” Between 1990 and 2023, anorexia and bulimia nervosa have grown by 71 per cent in the world. Thus, in 2023 there were more than 18 million people diagnosed with one of these eating disorders that main…

·Madrid, Spain
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The number of people with anorexia or bulimia has increased significantly worldwide. Young people and women are particularly often affected.

·Essen, Germany
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The number of people with anorexia or bulimia has increased significantly worldwide. Young people and women are particularly often affected.

·Berlin, Germany
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Between 1990 and 2023, cases of anorexia and bulimia increased 71 percent in the world, to over 18 million people diagnosed.

·Mexico
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Science Writing, 28 Oct (EFE).- Between 1990 and 2023, anorexia and bulimia nervosa have grown by 71% in the world. Thus, in 2023 there were more than 18 million people diagnosed with one of these eating disorders that mainly affect women and girls between 10 and 24 years of age. [...] The entry Rates of anorexia and bulimia are triggered by more than 70% since 1990 and will continue to increase was first published in HolaNews.

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dailymail.com broke the news on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
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