Risk factors for the development of eating disorders among university students in Santa Catarina

Abstract

Risk factors for the development of eating disorders involve attitudes and inadequate practices toward food and weight and can be evaluated based on validated instruments. Risky behavior had increased incidence of and are common in college students. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the presence of risk factors for the development of Eating disorders in college women of a Community institution of the coast of Santa Catarina, identifying the most reported risk factors. This cross-sectional study analyzing 210 students two courses, by means of an eating attitudes test (EAT) and a complementary activity body image. It was also evaluated possible correlations of undergraduate course, age and nutritional status with the risk factors. Of total assessed 18.57% presented risk of developing Eating disorders, 64.10% are students course of Nutrition and 35.90% of Psychology. In relation to body image 61,42% they are shown if dissatisfied with what they see in the mirror. Among the most reported risk factors are the items “look the amount of food calories" and "I am terrified at the idea of being fatter". Considering that Eating Disorders are a disease of low prevalence in the world population, the proportion with which the risk factors were found in the studied sample is worrisome. The results of this study can be used to perform futures health promotion programs.