The Number of People with Anorexia and Bulimia Could Reach 21.8 Million by 2050

The authors analyzed data from 204 countries and territories as part of the international Global Burden of Disease project. The study examined the prevalence of eating disorders, differences across age and gender groups, and their impact on population health.

In 2023, approximately 14.2 million people had bulimia and 3.92 million had anorexia. Women accounted for 69% of all cases, while men represented 31%. Anorexia was most common among adolescents aged 15–19, whereas bulimia was most prevalent among people aged 30 and older.

The highest prevalence rates were recorded in high-income countries and regions, particularly Australasia and Western Europe. However, since 1990, the largest increases in the prevalence of these disorders have occurred in East Asia, at 61.5%, and South Asia, at 48.5%.

Anorexia is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and severe food restriction, which can lead to dangerous malnutrition. Bulimia involves episodes of binge eating followed by attempts to compensate for the food consumed, for example, by inducing vomiting or using laxatives. Both disorders can seriously harm physical and mental health.

The study authors emphasize that eating disorders should not be regarded simply as a lifestyle choice. They require timely detection and treatment. At the same time, the actual number of people affected may be higher than official estimates, as these conditions often remain undiagnosed, including among men.

Amid the spread of social media trends promoting extreme thinness and severe dietary restrictions, specialists have also expressed concern about the misuse of GLP-1 medications, which are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, the study did not assess the impact of these trends or medications on the rising number of eating disorders.