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Physical Illness

A Risk Factor in Anorexia Nervosa

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2018

E. Johnson-Sabine
Affiliation:
Royal Free Hospital

Abstract

Reports have appeared in the literature suggesting an association between physical illness and the later development of anorexia nervosa. The histories of 326 patients with anorexia nervosa were examined for physical illness. A higher rate of severe physical illness was found in this group when compared with controls suggesting that it should be regarded as a risk factor for anorexia nervosa. No statistically significant differences were found when illness was examined by time in relation to onset of anorexia, system involved, or when subjects were stratified by age. Possible explanations for the observed association are discussed.

Type
Papers
Copyright
Copyright © 1986 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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