Some statistics from Beat...
- It is estimated that 1.25 million people in the UK have some form of an Eating Disorder but this number doesn't include those undiagnosed or recognise they are ill.
- Eating Disorders don'e discriminate, they affect anyone of any age, gender, race or background.
- It is estimated that 1 in 4 suffered of Anorexia or Bulimia are male.
- 4% of the UK population will suffer from some form of eating disorder int heir lifetime; many more people will be affected by the effects such as friends, family member and colleagues.
- There is no one single cause of an Eating Disorder, research is being done to understand more but it is likely that is is a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors.
- Eating Disorders are no about food or weight but instead the behaviours are about a way of coping with difficulties and feeling in control.
- Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.
- Eating Disorders cost the UK economy £16.8 billion pounds per year - £4.6 billion in treatment cost to the NHS; £3.1 billion costs to suffers and carers; £1.1 billion to private treatment costs and an £8 billion pound in loss of income to the economy
- 32% of people feel discriminated at work because of their eating disorder.
- 41% wait more than 6 months for a diagnosis and/or treatment
- Research into Eating Disorder is severely underfunded - 15p on eating disorder research per adult affected verses £1,571 on cancer
- The key to recovery is early intervention which often doesn't happen.
- Suffers of eating disorders are 50% less likely to relapse if treatment is sought immediately.
- 11% of suffers are left with with long-term psychological and physical problems for example osteoporosis.
- In some area of the country in 2014 suffers waited on average 182 days to access outpatient treatment.
For more information visit www.beatingeatingdisorders.org.uk.
Looking for support?
Helpline: 0808 801 0677
Email: help@beatingeatingdisorders.org.uk
Youthline: 0808 801 0711
Email: fyp@beatingeatingdisorders.org.uk
Helpline are open 365 days a year 3-10pm.
on the website message boards, online support groups, one-to-one chats and more information about recovery, news, research, training and support and more can be found.
Twitter: @BeatEDSupport
Instagram: BeatEDSupport
