1
|
Linsenmeyer W, Stiles D, Garwood S, Giedinghagen A, Lewis C, Strand G. The Sick, Control, One Stone, Fat, Food (SCOFF) is a Valid Eating Disorder Questionnaire to Use With Transgender Youth. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2024; 63:971-976. [PMID: 37712557 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231200754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Transgender youth experience elevated rates of eating disorders, yet few screening measures have been validated with transgender patients. The purpose of this study was to provide initial evidence for the internal consistency and convergent validity of the Sick, Control, One Stone, Fat, Food (SCOFF) in a sample of transgender youth. Two hundred eight participants completed the SCOFF as part of a routine screening protocol. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to establish the factor structure of the SCOFF in this sample. Relationships between the SCOFF, Adolescent Binge Eating Disorder (ADO-BED), Nine-Item Avoidant/Restrictive Intake Disorder (NIAS), Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), and demographic characteristics were explored. The SCOFF was significantly related to all convergent validity variables, with moderate correlations with other eating disorder scales (ADO-BED and NIAS). The SCOFF is a valid measure to screen for eating disorders among transgender youth and young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah Garwood
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Christopher Lewis
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gretta Strand
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Accurso EC, Cordell KD, Guydish J, Snowden LR. Exploring Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Racially and Ethnically Diverse Youth With Eating Disorders Using California Medicaid Claims Data. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 63:615-623. [PMID: 37992854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2023.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the scope of diagnosed eating disorders among Medicaid-insured youth in California, and to describe the demographic characteristics of this population in a repeated annual cross-sectional study design. METHOD California Medicaid claims data were extracted for youth aged 7 to 18 years between January 2014 and December 2016. Participants included all youth who received an eating disorder diagnosis at any point in the study period (N = 8,075). Additional analyses compared youth with eating disorders who were continuously enrolled across all 3 years (n = 4,500) to random subsamples of continuously enrolled youth diagnosed with a mood or anxiety disorder (n = 4,128), a disruptive behavior disorder (n = 4,599), or a psychotic disorder (n = 4,290). RESULTS About one-half of youth with eating disorders were Latinx (58.5%, n = 2,634) and indicated Spanish as their preferred language (48.9%, n = 2,199). About one-half (51%, n = 2,301) of eating disorder diagnoses were unspecified. Latinx ethnicity and Spanish language were significantly more frequent among youth with eating disorders than among those with other disorders (F11.97, F362.75, p values <.0005). CONCLUSION The first examination of publicly insured youth with eating disorders revealed a highly diverse group of individuals among whom Latinx youth were particularly prevalent. However, past-year national prevalence estimates suggest that most eating disorder cases were undiagnosed. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Eating disorders affect approximately 10% of the US population and lead to serious mental health and medical problems. This study used California Medicaid claims data from 2014 to 2016 to characterize the population of youth aged 7 to 18 years with diagnosed with an eating disorder (N = 8,075). The authors found the prevalence of eating disorders among youth aged 13 to 18 years was about 0.20% across all 3 years of the study, which is far below the expected prevalence and suggests that most eating disorders in youth go undiagnosed. About half of eating disorder diagnoses provided to youth with Medicaid insurance are unspecified, which may hinder receipt of appropriate treatment. Of youth with an eating disorder, about half were Latinx and reported Spanish as their preferred language. The authors also found differences in the prevalences of eating disorder diagnoses when analyzing youth by age, sex, and ethnicity. These results suggest that more standardized screening and assessment is needed to improve eating disorders detection and diagnosis, particularly for minoritized youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Duggento Cordell
- Opeeka, Folsom, California; Center for Innovation in Population Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Social Policy Institute, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | - Joseph Guydish
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kerr JA, Paine J, Thrower E, Hoq M, Mollica C, Sawyer SM, Azzopardi PS, Pang KC. Prevalence of Eating Disorder Symptoms in Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents Presenting for Gender-Affirming Care. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:850-853. [PMID: 38206224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.11.396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the prevalence of eating disorder symptoms among adolescents seeking gender-affirming care. METHODS Cross-sectional study of 660 gender-diverse adolescents who completed the Branched Eating Disorder Test to measure anorexia and bulimia symptoms. RESULTS 23.9% (95% CI 20.7-27.4) reported both anorexia symptoms, namely overvaluation of weight and fear of (or recurrent interference with) weight gain. 0.9% (95% CI 0.3-2.0) reported all bulimia symptoms, namely overvaluation of weight, recurrent binge eating, and recurrent compensatory behaviors (e.g., weekly purging). For all symptoms, prevalence was higher among i) adolescents assigned female at birth compared to those assigned male at birth, and ii) adolescents who felt unsure about their gender identity compared to those who identified as trans or nonbinary. DISCUSSION Clinicians should monitor eating disorder symptoms among adolescents presenting for gender-affirming care, especially among those assigned female at birth or who are unsure about their gender identity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Kerr
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Population Health and Clinical Sciences Themes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica Paine
- Royal Children's Hospital Department of Adolescent Medicine, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emily Thrower
- Royal Children's Hospital Department of Adolescent Medicine, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Monsurul Hoq
- Population Health and Clinical Sciences Themes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Mollica
- Royal Children's Hospital Department of Adolescent Medicine, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan M Sawyer
- Population Health and Clinical Sciences Themes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter S Azzopardi
- Population Health and Clinical Sciences Themes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Adolescent Health and Wellbeing Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ken C Pang
- Population Health and Clinical Sciences Themes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Royal Children's Hospital Department of Adolescent Medicine, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Usta Sağlam NG, Zengin K, Osmanlı Shirolu S, Sulu C, Kırpınar MM, Turan Ş. Disordered eating behaviors in gender-affirmative treatment seeking transgender people. Eat Disord 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38557398 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2024.2336277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore disordered eating behaviors in gender-affirming treatment (GAT)-seeking transgender (TG) adults and cisgender people, in addition to analyzing the association between gender dysphoria intensity, body mass index, and disordered eating behaviors. Data were collected from 132 GAT-seeking TG people with gender dysphoria who had never received GAT (91 TG men, 41 TG women), and 153 cisgender (99 cisgender men, 54 cisgender women) participants from Turkey. The Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale was used to evaluate the intensity of gender dysphoria. Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and Questionnaire on Eating and Weight Patterns-5 were utilized to assess disordered eating. There was no difference between TG women and TG men in terms of ED psychopathology. The most prominent characteristic in all four groups was shape concern, which was significantly higher in TG men and TG women when compared to cisgender men and cisgender women. Binge eating was notably more frequent in TG men and TG women compared to cisgender men, with 11% of the TG men and 7.3% of the TG women meeting the criteria for possible binge eating disorder. Screening for disordered eating behaviors, particularly binge eating, may be recommended in routine care for TG people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nazife Gamze Usta Sağlam
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Kerem Zengin
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Sadiga Osmanlı Shirolu
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Cem Sulu
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Mehmet Murat Kırpınar
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Şenol Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkiye
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cobbaert L, Hay P, Mitchell PB, Roza SJ, Perkes I. Sensory processing across eating disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of self-report inventories. Int J Eat Disord 2024. [PMID: 38511825 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review investigated the extant literature regarding the relationship between eating disorder diagnoses and sensory processing as measured by validated and reliable self-report inventories. Increasing evidence highlights the role of sensory processing in cognitive functions. Sensory processing is implicated in mental-ill health, including eating disorders (ED) and body image disturbances. However, the pathophysiological underpinnings of sensory processing, encompassing exteroception and interoception, in relation to ED remain underexplored. METHOD We included studies involving participants aged 15 years or older with an eating disorder diagnosis confirmed by semi-structured or structured interviews. We further limited inclusion to articles using validated and reliable self-report instruments to measure sensory processing. Our meta-analysis focused on studies using the interoceptive awareness subscale from the second version of the Eating Disorder Inventory. We used the Critical Appraisal checklist for quasi-experimental studies to assess the quality of included articles. RESULTS There were 19 studies that met our inclusion criteria. Most studies showed moderate-to-high quality. Anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) were associated with heightened exteroception. Moreover, people with AN reported a heightened sense of taste compared to those with BN. Our meta-analysis comprising 10 studies, 19 samples, and 6382 participants revealed that AN (binge-purge subtype) and BN were associated with increased interoceptive difficulties compared to AN (restrictive subtype) or binge-eating disorder. DISCUSSION Overall, this review emphasizes the need for a deeper investigation into sensory processing, spanning both exteroception and interoception, in relation to ED. This may prove important for individualizing person-centered care. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE How people process internal, for example, hunger, and external, for example, taste and sensations is known to influence cognition and mental-ill health, including ED and body image disturbances. However, the ways in which sensory processing may contribute to ED are incompletely understood. We found that individuals with AN or BN experienced heightened exteroception, while people with an eating disorder characterized by purging reported increased interoceptive difficulties. These patterns could inform the development of more personalized treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Cobbaert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
- Mental Health Services, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip B Mitchell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sabine J Roza
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iain Perkes
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gordon AR, Roberts S, Silverstein S, Rose KL, Lopez E, Calzo JP. What is needed for eating disorder prevention for transgender and gender diverse young adults? Findings from asynchronous online focus groups. Body Image 2024; 48:101667. [PMID: 38101273 PMCID: PMC10922438 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) young adults face higher risk of eating disorder (ED) symptoms than cisgender peers. Evidence-based ED prevention programs exist but must be adapted to meet the needs of diverse TGD populations. We conducted eight asynchronous online focus groups in 2019 with 66 ethnically and gender diverse TGD young adults (18-30 years) living in the United States. Participants were recruited online; groups took place over four consecutive days. We conducted inductive thematic analysis of participant responses to three prompts about ED prevention needs and advice for program developers. Findings fell into three domains. In Domain 1: Developing Program Content, themes included (1.1) need to address multiple dimensions of gender; (1.2) intersectional representation matters; (1.3) limitations of ED research; (1.4) being responsive to trauma. Domain 2: Program Delivery Considerations, included preferences for (2.1) group composition, (2.2) intervention modality, and (2.3) program leadership. Domain 3: Cultivating Affirming Spaces included themes addressing the need for programs to (3.1) create judgment-free environments and (3.2) center lived experience. TGD young adults in this study described a range of needs and recommendations for ED prevention content and delivery, with relevance to clinicians, program designers, and ED prevention advocates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allegra R Gordon
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Savannah Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kelsey L Rose
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | | | - Jerel P Calzo
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA; Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
White M, Thomas A, Aston M, Joy P. "It's beautiful and it's messy and it's tragic": exploring the role of compassion in the eating disorder recovery processes of 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians. J Eat Disord 2024; 12:23. [PMID: 38326869 PMCID: PMC10848359 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-024-00981-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This research explores experiences of compassion among 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians living with eating disorders in the context of eating disorder treatment and community support. There is a growing body of scholarship showing disparities in eating disorder care for those within 2S/LGBTQ + communities. Among the reported concerns is a potential lack of compassion in eating disorder treatment and recovery settings, something which may serve to exacerbate feelings of isolation and perpetuate misunderstandings of 2S/LGBTQ + people's experiences. In an effort to understand these dynamics more deeply, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians who have experienced eating disorder care. The data collected were then subjected to Foucauldian discourse analysis, which produced three interconnected discursive considerations: feeling lack of structural compassion, 2S/LGBTQ + communities as places of respite, and 2S/LGBTQ + caregiving. One of the common threads among these discursive considerations was cis-heteronormativity ingrained in eating disorder treatment settings and health care systems more broadly. Our findings underscore the critical need for more enhanced compassion for 2S/LGBTQ + patients in eating disorder care settings. We conclude that compassion, when implemented on the levels of individual clinicians, policy and procedure, and institutions, may represent an avenue toward disrupting ingrained cis-heteronormativity and the associated discursive power structures contained in health care systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan White
- Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Andrew Thomas
- Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Megan Aston
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Phillip Joy
- Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Baker JH, Freestone D, Cai K, Silverstein S, Urban B, Steinberg D. Eating Disorder Clinical Presentation and Treatment Outcomes by Gender Identity Among Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults. J Adolesc Health 2024:S1054-139X(23)00596-7. [PMID: 38310504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Current eating disorder treatment approaches for youth were developed for use with cisgender girls, which limits the understanding of effectiveness for cisgender boys and transgender and gender expansive (TGE) youth. Here, we compare treatment outcomes for cisgender boys and TGE youth with cisgender girls receiving family-based treatment for an eating disorder. METHODS Patients were aged 6-24 and either active in treatment or discharged from September 1, 2020, to November 1, 2022 (N = 1,235). Patient exposure to treatment varied given individualized length of treatment. Outcomes include eating disorder symptoms, depression, anxiety, suicidality, caregiver burden, and parental confidence in supervising treatment. Treatment outcomes for cisgender boys and TGE youth were compared with cisgender girls. RESULTS Patients included n = 975 cisgender girls, n = 152 cisgender boys, and n = 108 TGE youth. Anorexia nervosa was the most common diagnosis. Cisgender boys reported significantly lower eating disorder (b = -2.7 [-4.1, -1.3]), anxiety (b = -1.6 [-2.2, -0.9]), and depression (b = -1.7 [-2.4, -0.9]) symptoms at admission compared with cisgender girls. TGE patients had significantly higher anxiety (b = 1.08 [0.28, 1.91]) and depression (b = 1.72 [0.78, 2.65]) symptoms compared with cisgender girls. Cisgender boys started with significantly lower suicidal ideation (b = -1.28 [-2.19, -0.43]) and TGE patients with significantly higher suicidal ideation (b = 1.63 [0.76, 2.51]) than cisgender girls. All symptoms improved during treatment and improved at similar rates over time in treatment regardless of gender identity. DISCUSSION Early evidence from this study supports the use of family-based treatment for cisgender boys and TGE youth with eating disorders. Further research is needed on the long-term outcomes of this approach for youth of all genders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kelly Cai
- Equip Health, Inc., Carlsbad, California
| | | | - Bek Urban
- Equip Health, Inc., Carlsbad, California
| | - Dori Steinberg
- Equip Health, Inc., Carlsbad, California; Duke Global Digital Health Science Center, Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lawrence SE, Watson RJ, Eadeh HM, Brown C, Puhl RM, Eisenberg ME. Bias-based bullying, self-esteem, queer identity pride, and disordered eating behaviors among sexually and gender diverse adolescents. Int J Eat Disord 2024; 57:303-315. [PMID: 37990394 PMCID: PMC10922269 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Limited research incorporates an intersectional approach when evaluating disordered eating behaviors among those holding minoritized social positions, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, questioning, and/or transgender/gender diverse (LGBTQ) adolescents. The current study assessed stigma experiences from peers at school, self-esteem, LGBTQ pride, and overlapping social positions as they relate to disordered eating behaviors among LGBTQ adolescents. METHOD Participants included 11,083 adolescents (Mage = 15.6, SD = 1.3; 34.8% transgender/gender diverse) from a large national survey study of LGBTQ adolescents from 2017. Exhaustive Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detection analysis was used to identify bias-based bullying experiences (i.e., weight-based, identity-based), self-esteem, LGBTQ pride, and overlapping social positions (i.e., gender identity, sexual identity, race/ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) percentile) associated with the highest prevalence of unhealthy weight control behaviors, extreme unhealthy weight control behaviors, and past year binge eating. RESULTS Adolescents in the 28 identified groups with a high prevalence of disordered eating behavior held at least one structurally marginalized social position (e.g., high BMI), bias-based bullying experience, low self-esteem, or low LGBTQ pride in addition to being LGBTQ. Weight-based bullying was a salient risk-factor for disordered eating across social positions. Among adolescents with the same social positions, levels of self-esteem, LGBTQ pride, but no bias-based bullying experience, prevalence estimates of disordered eating were, on average, 23% lower. DISCUSSION LGBTQ adolescents with multiple marginalized social positions and related factors engage in disproportionately high prevalence disordered eating. Findings underscore the importance of addressing intersecting experiences of stigma to reduce disordered eating and promote health equity among adolescents. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE Multiply marginalized LGBTQ adolescents, most of whom also reported experiencing bias-based bullying from peers at school, reported disproportionately high prevalence disordered eating. In comparison groups of adolescents with no bias-based bullying experience, prevalence of disordered eating was, on average, 24% lower. Findings underscore the importance of addressing intersecting experiences of stigma to reduce disordered eating and promote health equity among adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E. Lawrence
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- School of Social Work, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Ryan J. Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Hana-May Eadeh
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Camille Brown
- School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Puhl
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Marla E. Eisenberg
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tarchi L, Stanghellini G, Ricca V, Castellini G. The primacy of ocular perception: a narrative review on the role of gender identity in eating disorders. Eat Weight Disord 2024; 29:8. [PMID: 38217553 PMCID: PMC10787908 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-023-01632-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phenomenological research has enriched the scientific and clinical understanding of Eating Disorders (ED), describing the significant role played by disorders of embodiment in shaping the lived experience of patients with ED. According to the phenomenological perspective, disorders of embodiment in ED are associated with feelings of alienation from one's own body, determining an excessive concern for external appearance as a form of dysfunctional coping. The purpose of the present narrative review is to address the role of gender identity as a risk factor for EDs in the light of phenomenological approaches. METHODS Narrative review. RESULTS The current study discusses the interplay between perception, gender identity, and embodiment, all posited to influence eating psychopathology. Internalized concerns for body appearance are described as potentially associated with self-objectification. Furthermore, concerns on body appearance are discussed in relation to gendered social expectations. The current review also explores how societal norms and gender stereotypes can contribute to dysfunctional self-identification with external appearances, particularly through an excessive focus on the optical dimension. The socio-cultural perspective on gender identity was considered as a further explanation of the lived experience of individuals with ED. CONCLUSIONS By acknowledging the interplay between these factors, clinicians and researchers can gain a deeper understanding of these disorders and develop more effective interventions for affected individuals. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V narrative review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Tarchi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, AOU Careggi, Viale della maternità Padiglione 8B, 50126, Firenze, FI, Italy
| | - Giovanni Stanghellini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, AOU Careggi, Viale della maternità Padiglione 8B, 50126, Firenze, FI, Italy
- Centro de Estudios de Fenomenologia y Psiquiatria, Universidad 'Diego Portales', Santiago, Chile
| | - Valdo Ricca
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, AOU Careggi, Viale della maternità Padiglione 8B, 50126, Firenze, FI, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, AOU Careggi, Viale della maternità Padiglione 8B, 50126, Firenze, FI, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Campbell L, Viswanadhan K, Lois B, Dundas M. Emerging Evidence: A Systematic Literature Review of Disordered Eating Among Transgender and Nonbinary Youth. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:18-27. [PMID: 37791928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic literature review explores the evidence base related to the diagnosis and clinical management of eating disorders among transgender and gender nonbinary (TGNB) youth. Through an exploration of the literature, this review highlights key considerations for providers working with this population, including the complex relationship between body image and gender, the assessment of subthreshold eating disorder symptoms, the impact of gender-affirming care on eating disorder treatment outcomes, and available evidence-based metrics, with attention to factors impacting treatment, including family support, psychiatric comorbidities, and community safety. METHODS We conducted a search of the databases PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE for articles pertaining to eating disorders and TGNB youth, with forward citation chaining conducted via Google Scholar to provide a review of recent publications. Twenty-six articles published from 2017 to 2022 met the criteria for full-text review. RESULTS The selected articles primarily explored data from the United States and varied widely in methodology, including a systematic literature review (n = 1), narrative literature reviews (n = 3), case series (n = 4), case studies (n = 2), cross-sectional population surveys (n = 7), cross-sectional patient surveys (n = 3), other cross-sectional studies (n = 3), retrospective chart reviews (n = 2), and a retrospective longitudinal cohort study (n = 1). Most commonly, researchers sampled patients within the setting of gender clinics. Researchers used a range of validated measures in clinical settings, with the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire most frequently reported. The literature highlights several considerations unique to transgender populations, including the complex relationship between gender dysphoria, body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behavior, and gender-affirming care. DISCUSSION In clinical settings with TGNB youth, providers may consider implementing validated screening measures to assess for eating disorders. Future research should emphasize a nuanced understanding of the heterogeneity among TGNB patient populations and the impact of gender identity on treatment of eating disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Campbell
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York.
| | - Katya Viswanadhan
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Becky Lois
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Melissa Dundas
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Meneguzzo P, Zuccaretti D, Tenconi E, Favaro A. Transgender body image: Weight dissatisfaction, objectification & identity - Complex interplay explored via matched group. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2024; 24:100441. [PMID: 38292830 PMCID: PMC10825537 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2024.100441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In the context of body image and mental health, transgender individuals face distinctive challenges stemming from the complexities of their gender identity journey, societal expectations, and body norms. However, the existing line of research on this topic remains limited. This study explores the complex relationship in transgender individuals between body objectification, body weight dissatisfaction, and eating concerns. A sample of 154 individuals (77 transgenders paired with 77 cisgenders) was recruited via LGBTQ+ groups' mailing lists. Participants completed various questionnaires assessing body image, eating psychopathology, depression, and body objectification. Propensity score matching was performed with different variables: age, current BMI, years of education, current self-identified gender, and sexual orientation. The results revealed that transgender individuals experienced higher levels of body objectification, body weight dissatisfaction, and eating concerns compared to their cisgender counterparts. Additionally, age emerged as a protective factor, as older transgender individuals demonstrated improved body acceptance and self-esteem. Logistic regression analyzes indicated that bulimic behaviors, depressive symptoms, and appearance control beliefs were specific factors significantly associated with being transgender. Our findings highlight the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals in navigating their gender identity and body image, underscoring the importance of targeted interventions and support systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Meneguzzo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Elena Tenconi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Angela Favaro
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rappaport DI, O'Connor M, Reedy C, Vo M. Clinical Characteristics of US Adolescents Hospitalized for Eating Disorders 2010-2022. Hosp Pediatr 2024; 14:52-58. [PMID: 38124532 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2023-007381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Eating disorders (EDs) affect a substantial number of American adolescents, with an increasing number seeking care for EDs during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We assessed the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adolescents hospitalized with EDs during 2010 to 2022. METHODS We used data from a national database of 12 children's hospitals (PEDSnet). Adolescents aged 12 to 21 years hospitalized for ED, disordered eating, binge ED, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), or other EDs were included. Patients with complex or chronic illness or with EDs hospitalized for another reason were excluded. We analyzed demographic data, clinical characteristics, cardiac manifestations, coexistence of psychiatric conditions, and hospital stay characteristics. RESULTS We included 13 403 hospitalizations by 8652 patients in this study. We found a gradual increase in hospitalizations for patients with EDs before the pandemic and a large increase during the pandemic. Mean age was 15.8 years with 85.9% described as female and 71.8% as white. Anorexia nervosa was the most common ED (57.5%), though hospitalization for patients with ARFID is increasing. Patients' median BMI percentage was 90.3%. Patients' malnutrition was classified as none (50.9%), mild (25.0%), moderate (18.6%), or severe (5.4%). Significant numbers of patients had a diagnosis of depression (58.5%) or anxiety (57.0%); 21.9% had suicidal thoughts. Nearly one-quarter (23.6%) required rehospitalization for ED treatment within 1 year. CONCLUSIONS Hospitalizations for EDs among American adolescents are increasing, with a spike during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Significant numbers of patients hospitalized with EDs have suicidal thoughts. Trends in patients with ARFID require monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David I Rappaport
- Nemours Children's Hospital of Delaware, Wilmington, Delaware
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College/Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael O'Connor
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College/Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Cara Reedy
- Nemours Children's Hospital of Delaware, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Megen Vo
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yesildemir O, Akbulut G. Gender-Affirming Nutrition: An Overview of Eating Disorders in the Transgender Population. Curr Nutr Rep 2023; 12:877-892. [PMID: 37864747 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-023-00504-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Transgender individuals are vulnerable to many nutrition-related conditions, especially eating disorders due to gender dysphoria. This review aims to summarize the current literature on eating disorders in transgender individuals. The issues that should be considered in nutrition care for the transgender population are discussed regarding public health. RECENT FINDINGS Transgender individuals can exhibit disordered eating behaviors to overcome the stress they experience due to stigma, discrimination, social exclusion, and abuse. Recent studies showed that disordered eating and clinical eating disorders are more prevalent among transgender than cisgender people. It is very important for a multidisciplinary team working in the clinic to understand the epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic criteria, and treatment of eating disorders in the transgender population. However, multidisciplinary nutritional care is limited due to the lack of transgender-specific nutrition guidelines. It is safe to say that adhering to a generally healthy nutritional pattern and using standardized nutrition guidelines. We recommend that health professionals working with patients/clients with eating disorders receive continuing education in transgender health, be empowering and inclusive, address patients/clients with their gender identity nouns and pronouns, and develop nutritional treatment plans that are not gender-specific. Eating disorders are a significant public health problem in the transgender population. Therefore, clinical screening and early intervention are necessary to identify and treat eating disorders in transgender people. Eating disorders in the transgender population should be monitored routinely, and gender-affirming care should be provided as well as treatment of eating disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Yesildemir
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, 16059, Turkey.
| | - Gamze Akbulut
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Kent University, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rancaño KM, Lawrence SE. Health Consequences of Familial Negative Weight Talk Across the Spectrum of Gender Diversity. Curr Nutr Rep 2023; 12:581-593. [PMID: 37837600 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-023-00501-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To synthesize differences in familial negative weight talk and health-related correlates across gender identities and to highlight gaps relevant to the unique experiences and health correlates of boys and transgender and gender diverse youth. RECENT FINDINGS Most of the studies included in this review observed no difference by gender in familial negative weight talk health correlates. Gender biases in existing measures, however, may have contributed to underreporting of health correlates in boys. Moreover, transgender and gender diverse youth are severely underrepresented in this research. Future research should consistently examine effect modification across gender identities and include measures that are specific to the weight-based concerns and experiences of boys and transgender and gender diverse youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Rancaño
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tesselaar JM, Mendoza RR, Siegel JA, Elbe CI, Caravelli NS, DeJesus J, Fenton M, Victoria BS, Blashill AJ. A qualitative analysis of relationship advice from the perspective of people living with and recovering from eating disorders while in diverse romantic relationships. Eat Disord 2023; 31:632-650. [PMID: 37194296 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2023.2206753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) have adverse consequences across life domains, ranging from physical health to interpersonal relationships. While research suggests that romantic partners have the potential to support ED recovery, partners to those with EDs often report feeling confused and helpless in the face of the condition. The extant literature on EDs in relationships centers on the experiences of cisgender, heterosexual women. The present study aimed to garner a more comprehensive understanding of the types of support people with EDs believe are most helpful from romantic partners by analyzing relationship advice from a diverse group of individuals with EDs who were in romantic relationships. As part of a larger study on romantic relationships in ED recovery, we analyzed responses to the question, "If you had to give one piece of advice to someone who learns that their partner has an ED, what would it be?" Through Consensual Qualitative Research-Modified, we identified 29 themes, which we grouped into 7 domains: Foster Open Communication, Create an Environment of Emotional Intimacy, Let Your Partner Guide You, Educate Yourself, Be Compassionate with Yourself, Use Caution when Discussing Food and Bodies, and a Miscellaneous domain. These findings highlight the importance of patience, flexibility, psychoeducation, and self-compassion for individuals working to support their partner's ED recovery, and can inform future couples-based treatments and interventions for EDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana M Tesselaar
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Rebecca R Mendoza
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jaclyn A Siegel
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Connor I Elbe
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Nicolas S Caravelli
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jennifer DeJesus
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Margo Fenton
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Brianna S Victoria
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Aaron J Blashill
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Keski-Rahkonen A. Eating disorders in transgender and gender diverse people: characteristics, assessment, and management. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2023; 36:412-418. [PMID: 37781981 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes recent research on eating disorders among gender minorities, transgender and gender diverse people. The focus is on research published in 2022 and the first half of 2023. RECENT FINDINGS Up to 1.2% of young people and 0.3-0.5% of adults identify as transgender, and 2.7-8.4% of young people and 0.3-4.5% of adults report some degree of gender diversity. About 20-50% of transgender and gender diverse people report engaging in disordered eating and >30% screen positive for eating disorder symptoms, and 2-12% have received an eating disorder diagnosis from a health professional. Many transgender and gender diverse people describe eating disorder symptoms as a way of coping with gender dysphoria. They also report high levels of mental and behavioral symptoms, particularly mood and anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, trauma-related symptoms and disorders, alcohol and substance use, and autism. Gender minorities frequently experience discrimination, victimization, and violence, primarily sexual and physical violence. The minority stress model attributes mental health symptoms to these factors. Promising interventions based on the minority stress model have recently become available, but more research is needed on how to support transgender and gender diverse people with eating disorders. To manage eating disorders in this population, gender-affirming care should be combined with specialist eating disorder treatment. SUMMARY Gender minorities are at high risk for eating disorders. Future studies should assess what is the most appropriate treatment for transgender and gender diverse people with eating disorders.
Collapse
|
18
|
Bazo Perez M, Hayes TB, Frazier LD. Beyond generalized anxiety: the association of anxiety sensitivity with disordered eating. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:173. [PMID: 37784155 PMCID: PMC10544544 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00890-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety and eating disorders (EDs) are rising at alarming rates. These mental health disorders are often comorbid, yet the factors associated with their comorbidity are not well understood. The present study examined a theoretical model of the pathways and relative associations of anxiety sensitivity (AS) with different dimensions of ED risk, controlling for generalized anxiety. METHODS Participants (N = 795) were undergraduate students with an average age of 21 (SD = 4.02), predominantly female (71%), and Hispanic (71.8%). Participants completed an online survey with established measures of AS (i.e., Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3; ASI-3), general anxiety (i.e., Beck Anxiety Inventory; BAI), and eating behaviors (i.e., Eating Attitudes Test-26; EAT-26). RESULTS The results of our structural equation models indicated that AS subscales were significantly associated with dimensions of the EAT-26, even when controlling for generalized anxiety. Specifically, the ASI-3 factors reflecting cognitive and social concerns provided the most consistent significant associations with EDs. Whereas reporting higher cognitive concerns was associated with higher ED symptoms (e.g., reporting the urge to vomit after a meal), reporting higher social concerns was associated with fewer ED symptoms. These differential results may suggest risk and resilience pathways and potential protective or buffering effects of social concerns on ED risk. DISCUSSION Findings advance understanding of the role of AS in the comorbidity of anxiety and EDs, demonstrating the strong association of AS with ED pathology. These findings provide cognitive indicators for transdiagnostic therapeutic intervention in order to reduce the risk of EDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bazo Perez
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| | - Timothy B Hayes
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Leslie D Frazier
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Goodrich E, Walcott Q, Dallman J, Crow H, Templeton K. Bone Health in the Transgender Population. JBJS Rev 2023; 11:01874474-202310000-00013. [PMID: 37883596 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.23.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
» Transgender women are more susceptible to low bone mineral density (BMD) before initiating gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), and while bone density initially improves with GAHT, it gradually declines while still remaining above baseline. Transgender women older than 50 years have a comparable fracture risk as age-matched cisgender women. Transgender men typically have normal or increased BMD before initiating and while receiving GAHT and are not at increased risk of fractures.» Transgender youth who receive puberty-blocking medications experience either no change or a slight decrease in BMD that returns to baseline after initiating GAHT.» It is important to abide by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry guidelines whenever ordering, performing, or reading a BMD scan for a gender-diverse patient.» There are no specific guidelines concerning vitamin D and calcium supplementation or the use of bisphosphonates in the transgender population, so the current recommendation is to abide by the guidelines for cisgender individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hanna Crow
- Ascension Saint Thomas, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Curtis A, Swaringen S, Janssen A. Complex Psychiatric Histories and Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2023; 32:731-745. [PMID: 37739631 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals face higher rates of stressors driving disproportionate health risks. Although psychiatric conditions are important to consider in the context of greater health-promoting efforts for TGD youth, any mental health concerns may or may not be related to gender identity or associated dysphoria. Nevertheless, it is essential to consider the impact of complex mental health factors on decisional capacity and gender care discussions. Psychiatric care of TGD youth includes stratifying risk factors through a minority stress lens, balancing acute needs with patient and caregiver priorities, and bolstering resilience using affirming care principles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Curtis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine. Seattle Children's Hospital, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
| | - Shanna Swaringen
- Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Aron Janssen
- The Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 446 E Ontario, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. https://twitter.com/LGBTDoc
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Heiden-Rootes K, Linsenmeyer W, Levine S, Oliveras M, Joseph M. A scoping review of research literature on eating and body image for transgender and nonbinary youth. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:168. [PMID: 37740228 PMCID: PMC10517525 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00853-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) adolescents and young adults are underrepresented in the literature on eating disorders and body image-related problems, despite increased mental health disparities and emerging research showing high associations between gender dysphoria, body image, and eating disorders among TGNB youth. AIMS The scoping review was designed to critically examine the research on TGNB adolescents and young adults who experience eating and body image related problems as well as clinical studies on treatment approaches and effectiveness. METHOD Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used for reporting this scoping review. The electronic databases of MEDLINE and PsychInfo were used for searching subject terms. Inclusion criteria for studies required the quantitative measurement or qualitative exploration of body image or eating for transgender minor children, adolescents, or young adult samples (18 to 25 years old) and address differences in eating/body-related problems by age. The relevant data was extracted and narratively summarized. RESULTS 49 studies were identified, data extracted, and analyzed. Increased prevalence of eating disorders and body image problems were identified for TGNB youth. Body-gender congruence through gender affirming social and medical interventions (e.g., hormone therapy) were noted as significant for alleviating body image problems and facilitating eating disorder treatment. Family and social factors were not well understood in the literature and a need for increased study of TGNB youth from varied racial/ethnic, neurodiverse, and within specific identities (e.g., nonbinary) and families and cultural contexts is still needed. CONCLUSIONS Future research should consider the use of developmental and family theories for guiding inclusion of salient social factors influencing eating patterns, body image, and treatment outcomes. In addition, more studies are needed with those from minoritized racial and ethnic groups, neurodiversity, and varied gender identities (e.g., nonbinary and gender queer) for identifying important differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Heiden-Rootes
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA.
| | - Whitney Linsenmeyer
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Samantha Levine
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Mark Oliveras
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Miriam Joseph
- University Libraries, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Linsenmeyer W. Nutrition research and practice with transgender and gender non-conforming populations. Proc Nutr Soc 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37731252 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665123003683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the present article is to describe the current state of sex and gender data collection in nutrition science research, discuss the effects of flawed data collection practices, highlight considerations for transgender and gender non-conforming populations and propose a sex- and gender-informed approach to human subjects research. Sex and gender are separate constructs that are often conflated in nutrition research and practice. Current nutrition surveillance programmes in the United States, United Kingdom and Ireland do not accurately capture sex and gender data, which undermines the accuracy of the analyses and excludes gender minorities. Transgender and gender non-conforming populations have distinct clinical and psychosocial nutrition considerations that require further research to inform nutrition policy and practice, such as anthropometric and biochemical changes with hormone therapy, eating disorders, food insecurity and nutrition as a source of empowerment or expression of gender identity. Researchers can apply a sex- and gender-informed approach to human subjects research by treating sex and gender as separate, relevant demographic data, appreciating gender as a fluid construct, and approaching data collection on gender minorities with sensitivity to privacy and confidentiality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Linsenmeyer
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Saint Louis University, 3437 Caroline Street, Room 3076, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to summarize the scientific evidence on bone health in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth. RECENT FINDINGS Gender-affirming medical therapies may be introduced during a key window of skeletal development in TGD adolescents. Before treatment, low bone density for age is more prevalent than expected in TGD youth. Bone mineral density Z-scores decrease with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and differentially respond to subsequent estradiol or testosterone. Risk factors for low bone density in this population include low body mass index, low physical activity, male sex designated at birth, and vitamin D deficiency. Peak bone mass attainment and implications for future fracture risk are not yet known. TGD youth have higher than expected rates of low bone density prior to initiation of gender-affirming medical therapy. More studies are needed to understand the skeletal trajectories of TGD youth receiving medical interventions during puberty.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Y Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
- Endocrine and Metabolism Section, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Williamson G, Cotter EW, Cao L, Guidinger C, Kelly NR. Ecological momentary assessment of state affect prior to and following loss of control eating in young men. Eat Behav 2023; 50:101782. [PMID: 37517107 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Loss of control (LOC) eating is prevalent but understudied among young men. Affect regulation models propose that LOC eating functions as a maladaptive effort to escape from distressing affective states. As such, negative affect is thought to increase before and decrease after LOC eating. However, examinations with young men are lacking and it remains unclear whether specific emotional experiences are differentially implicated in their LOC eating. METHODS The current study examined the temporal roles of affect in LOC eating in 31 young men (18-35 years; Mage = 25.74 ± 5.61y; 46.7 % White; 30 % Black/African American; 10 % Hispanic/Latino, 10 % South Asian) who reported engaging in recurrent LOC eating. Participants completed a 14-day ecological momentary assessment protocol and recorded all eating episodes each day and their state affect five times per day. Generalized linear mixed models were conducted to examine the trajectories of global and item-level negative and positive affect pre- and post-LOC eating episodes. RESULTS Negative affect did not change significantly before or after LOC eating (ps > .05). Positive affect did not change significantly before LOC eating (ps > .05). Global positive affect, excitement, and happiness decreased significantly after LOC eating (ps ≤ .001). DISCUSSION Study findings contradict extant theory and empirical data largely from female samples. Negative affect did not increase risk for LOC eating, nor did LOC eating function to improve participants' mood; rather, positive mood slightly decreased after LOC eating. Further investigation around the observed decline in positive affect after LOC eating will clarify if this is a relevant intervention point in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gina Williamson
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, United States of America; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, United States of America.
| | - Elizabeth W Cotter
- Department of Health Studies, American University, United States of America.
| | - Li Cao
- Sanford Center for Biobehavioral Research, United States of America.
| | - Claire Guidinger
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, United States of America; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, United States of America.
| | - Nichole R Kelly
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, United States of America; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Heiden-Rootes K, Linsenmeyer W, Levine S, Oliveras M, Joseph M. A scoping review of the research literature on eating and body image for transgender and nonbinary adults. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:111. [PMID: 37400915 PMCID: PMC10318796 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00828-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating disorder treatment approaches and outcome studies have historically centered almost exclusively on cisgender populations. Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) adults are underrepresented in general and intervention research despite being at increased risk for eating and body image-related problems. AIMS This scoping review was designed to gather and examine the research with TGNB adults who experience eating and body image related problems, as well as clinical studies on the effectiveness of treatment approaches. METHOD Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used for reporting this review. MEDLINE and PsychInfo were used as electronic databases for searching subject terms. Inclusion criteria for studies required the quantitative measurement or qualitative exploration of body image or eating for TGNB adults. The relevant data were extracted and summarized based on quantitative findings and qualitative themes. RESULTS After review of over 1258 articles, 59 studies met criteria and data were extracted and summarized. Factors associated with eating disorders and body image problems across studies suggests gender-affirming medical interventions are effective and emphasized treatment for an eating disorder is warranted alongside gender affirming medical care. Body image was associated with eating patterns aimed at meeting gendered ideals of body shape and size. There was variation in guiding theories and absence of consensus in the definition of transgender in the review studies. This likely demonstrates the changing language, social acceptance of TGNB people and identities, diagnostic criteria, and clinical conceptualizations of eating and body image. CONCLUSIONS Future research should consider the use of theory for guiding inclusion of salient social factors influencing eating patterns, body image, and treatment outcomes. In addition, future research is needed that centers on nonbinary and genderqueer populations, as well as those from minoritized racial and ethnic groups to inform culturally appropriate concerns, needs, and treatment modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Heiden-Rootes
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA.
| | - Whitney Linsenmeyer
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Samantha Levine
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Mark Oliveras
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd., Ste 1100, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Miriam Joseph
- University Libraries, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Knight R, Preston C. Exploring the effects of gender and sexual orientation on disordered eating: an EFA to CFA study of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:100. [PMID: 37349796 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00821-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Several problems limit our understanding of the ways that gender and sexual orientation influence disordered eating. These include the reliance on measures that have been developed and validated in samples of cisgender heterosexual women, and the lack of confirmed measurement invariance that allows us to meaningfully compare these experiences between groups. This study was an EFA to CFA exploration of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire in a group of heterosexual, bisexual, gay, and lesbian men and women. In total 1638 participants were recruited via adverts in traditional and social media to complete an online survey. A 14-item, three-factor model of the EDE-Q was confirmed as best fitting the data and measurement invariance between groups was ascertained. Sexual orientation influenced disordered eating and muscularity-related thoughts and behaviours in men but not women. Heterosexual men reported more muscularity-related concerns and behaviours, whereas gay men showed more thinness-related concerns and behaviours. Bisexual participants showed a different pattern, highlighting the importance of treating this group individually and not collating all non-heterosexual participants together. Small but significant effects of sexual orientation and gender have an impact on the kinds of disordered eating thoughts and behaviours one might experience, and could influence prevention and treatment. Clinicians may be able to provide more effective and tailored interventions by taking into account gender and sexual orientation in sensitive ways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Knight
- Department of Psychology, York St John University, Lord Mayors Walk, York, Y031 7EX, UK.
- University of York, York, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Linsenmeyer W, Stiles D, Garwood S, Giedinghagen A, Lewis C, Strand G. Validation of the adolescent binge eating disorder measure (ADO-BED) among transgender youth and young adults. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:91. [PMID: 37287086 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00816-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender youth and young adults are at increased risk for eating disorders, including binge eating disorder, yet few measures have been validated for screening purposes with the transgender population. METHODS The purpose of this study was to provide initial evidence for the internal consistency and convergent validity of the Adolescent Binge Eating Disorder questionnaire (ADO-BED) in a sample of transgender youth and young adults. 208 participants completed the ADO-BED as part of a routine nutrition screening protocol at a gender center. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis was used to establish the factor structure of the ADO-BED. Relationships between the ADO-BED, Sick, Control, One Stone, Fat, Food (SCOFF), Nine Item Avoidant/restrictive Intake Disorder (NIAS), Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), and demographic characteristics were explored. RESULTS Analyses revealed a one-factor structure of the ADO-BED with good fit to the data in the present sample. The ADO-BED was shown to be significantly related to all convergent validity variables, except the NIAS. CONCLUSIONS The ADO-BED is a valid measure to screen for BED among transgender youth and young adults. Healthcare professionals can screen all transgender patients for BED, regardless of body size, in order to effectively identify and manage binge eating concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dana Stiles
- Saint Louis University, 3437 Caroline Street, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Sarah Garwood
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Andrea Giedinghagen
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Christopher Lewis
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Gretta Strand
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Clemente-Suárez VJ, Ramírez-Goerke MI, Redondo-Flórez L, Beltrán-Velasco AI, Martín-Rodríguez A, Ramos-Campo DJ, Navarro-Jiménez E, Yáñez-Sepúlveda R, Tornero-Aguilera JF. The Impact of Anorexia Nervosa and the Basis for Non-Pharmacological Interventions. Nutrients 2023; 15:2594. [PMID: 37299557 PMCID: PMC10255390 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder with an unknown etiology that is characterized by an individual's preoccupation with their weight and body structure while denying the severity of their low body weight. Due to the fact that anorexia nervosa is multifaceted and may indicate the coexistence of genetic, social, hormonal, and psychiatric disorders, a description of non-pharmacological interventions can be used to ameliorate or reduce the symptoms of this condition. Consequently, the purpose of the present narrative review is to describe the profile's context in the anorexic person as well as the support they would require from their family and environment. In addition, it is aimed at examining preventative and non-pharmacological interventions, such as nutritional interventions, physical activity interventions, psychological interventions, psychosocial interventions, and physical therapy interventions. To reach the narrative review aims, a critical review was conducted utilizing both primary sources, such as scientific publications, and secondary sources, such as bibliographic indexes, web pages, and databases. Nutritional interventions include nutritional education and an individualized treatment for each patient, physical activity interventions include allowing patients to perform controlled physical activity, psychological interventions include family therapy and evaluation of the existence of other psychological disorders, psychosocial interventions include management of the relationship between the patient and social media and physical therapy interventions include relaxation massages and exercises to relieve pain. All these non-pharmacological interventions need to be individualized based on each patient's needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (V.J.C.-S.); (M.I.R.-G.); (J.F.T.-A.)
| | - Maria Isabel Ramírez-Goerke
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (V.J.C.-S.); (M.I.R.-G.); (J.F.T.-A.)
| | - Laura Redondo-Flórez
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Ana Isabel Beltrán-Velasco
- Psychology Department, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y la Naturaleza, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, 28240 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Alexandra Martín-Rodríguez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (V.J.C.-S.); (M.I.R.-G.); (J.F.T.-A.)
| | - Domingo Jesús Ramos-Campo
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Science-INEF, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Rodrigo Yáñez-Sepúlveda
- Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Viña del Mar 2520000, Chile;
| | - José Francisco Tornero-Aguilera
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (V.J.C.-S.); (M.I.R.-G.); (J.F.T.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
McGregor K, McKenna JL, Barrera EP, Williams CR, Hartman-Munick SM, Guss CE. Disordered eating and considerations for the transgender community: a review of the literature and clinical guidance for assessment and treatment. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:75. [PMID: 37189185 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00793-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been well established that individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer are at increased risk for mental health pathology, including eating disorders/disordered eating behaviors (ED/DEB). However, less is understood about the unique experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people who struggle with ED/DEB. AIMS The purpose of this literature review is to examine the literature regarding the unique risk factors for TGD individuals who experience ED/DEB through a lens informed by the minority stress model. Additionally, guidance around the assessment and clinical management of eating disorders for TGD individuals will be presented. RESULTS TGD people are at increased risk for developing ED/DEB due to a number of factors including: gender dysphoria, minority stress, the desire to pass, and barriers to gender affirming care. CONCLUSION While guidance around assessment and treatment of ED/DEB for TGD individuals is still limited, adhering to a gender affirmative care model is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerry McGregor
- Gender Multispecialty Service, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - John L McKenna
- Gender Multispecialty Service, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellis P Barrera
- Gender Multispecialty Service, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Coleen R Williams
- Gender Multispecialty Service, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sydney M Hartman-Munick
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center/UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Carly E Guss
- Gender Multispecialty Service, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
White C, Bicaker E, Racine SE. Gender differences in compulsive exercise facets and their associations with eating disorder symptoms. Eat Behav 2023; 49:101737. [PMID: 37150095 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Compulsive exercise (CE) is a core symptom of eating disorders (EDs) that is common in undergraduate men and women. Importantly, CE is a multidimensional construct, and certain facets of CE (i.e., exercise to control weight or to avoid negative affect associated with missed exercise) are more strongly associated with ED symptoms in undergraduate women than others. However, less is known about how CE facets relate to ED symptoms in men. This study examined: 1) gender differences in levels of CE facets, assessed using the Compulsive Exercise Test (CET); 2) whether specific CE facets independently relate to ED symptoms; and 3) whether gender moderates these relationships. Five hundred and ninety-one university students (58.5 % men) completed the CET and Eating Pathology Symptoms Inventory. Women reported significantly greater weight control exercise, exercise for mood improvement, lack of exercise enjoyment, body dissatisfaction, and purging than men, while men reported more muscle building than women. CE motivated by avoidance of negative emotions and performed in a rule-driven manner and weight control CE were associated with the greatest number of ED symptoms. Further, rigid exercise routines were associated with greater muscle building. Women with greater weight control CE experienced more body dissatisfaction, and women with more CE motivated by avoidance of negative emotions experienced more restriction, compared to men. Overall, specific CE facets relate to ED symptoms in men and women. Findings highlight the importance of interventions designed to target unhealthy exercise motivations and of cultivating healthy attitudes towards exercise across genders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe White
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Canada
| | - Ege Bicaker
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Sharpe SL, Adams M, Smith EK, Urban B, Silverstein S. Inaccessibility of care and inequitable conceptions of suffering: a collective response to the construction of "terminal" anorexia nervosa. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:66. [PMID: 37131268 PMCID: PMC10152768 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00791-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Informed by our lived experiences with eating disorders, our work providing direct support to communities underserved by existing healthcare structures, and our commitment to social justice, we are deeply troubled by several aspects of the proposed characteristics for "terminal" anorexia nervosa outlined by Gaudiani et al. in Journal of Eating Disorders (10:23, 2022). We have identified two substantial areas of concern in the proposed characteristics provided by Gaudiani et al. and the subsequent publication by Yager et al. (10:123, 2022). First, the original article and the subsequent publication fail to adequately address the widespread inaccessibility of eating disorder treatment, the lack of parameters for what constitutes "high quality care", and the prevalence of trauma experienced in treatment settings for those who do access treatment. Second, the characteristics proposed for "terminal" anorexia nervosa are constructed largely based on subjective and inconsistent valuations of suffering which build on and contribute to harmful and inaccurate eating disorder stereotypes. Overall, we believe these proposed characteristics in their current form stand to detract from, rather than assist, the ability of patients and providers to make informed, compassionate, and patient-centered decisions about safety and autonomy both for individuals with enduring eating disorders and for individuals with more recently diagnosed eating disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam L Sharpe
- Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations (FEDUP) Collective, 4400 North Congress Avenue Suite 100, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407, USA.
| | - Marissa Adams
- Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations (FEDUP) Collective, 4400 North Congress Avenue Suite 100, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407, USA
| | - Emil K Smith
- Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations (FEDUP) Collective, 4400 North Congress Avenue Suite 100, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407, USA
| | - Bek Urban
- Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations (FEDUP) Collective, 4400 North Congress Avenue Suite 100, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407, USA
| | - Scout Silverstein
- Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations (FEDUP) Collective, 4400 North Congress Avenue Suite 100, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Roberts KJ, Chaves E. Beyond Binge Eating: The Impact of Implicit Biases in Healthcare on Youth with Disordered Eating and Obesity. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081861. [PMID: 37111080 PMCID: PMC10146797 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Obesity and eating disorders (ED) can coexist resulting in worse health outcomes. Youth with ED are more likely to have obesity relative to peers with a healthy weight. Pediatric providers deliver first-line care to children and youth of all sizes and body shapes from infancy to adolescents. As healthcare providers (HCPs), we bring biases into our practice. Learning to recognize and address these biases is needed to provide the best care for youth with obesity. (2) Purpose: This paper aims to summarize the literature regarding the prevalence of ED beyond binge eating in youth with obesity and discuss how the intersection of weight, gender, and racial biases impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of ED. We provide recommendations for practice and considerations for research and policy. (3) Conclusions: The assessment and treatment of ED and disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in youth with obesity is complex and requires a holistic approach. This approach begins with identifying and understanding how one's implicit biases impact care. Providing care from a patient-centers lens, which considers how the intersection of multiple stigmatized identities increases the risk for DEBs in youth with obesity may improve long-term health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karyn J Roberts
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1921 E Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Eileen Chaves
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, 700 Children's Drive, Jwest 3rd Floor Columbus, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zickgraf HF, Garwood SK, Lewis CB, Giedinghagen AM, Reed JL, Linsenmeyer WR. Validation of the Nine-Item Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Screen Among Transgender and Nonbinary Youth and Young Adults. Transgend Health 2023; 8:159-167. [PMID: 37013088 PMCID: PMC10066774 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of the study was to provide initial evidence for the internal consistency and convergent validity of the nine-item avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder screen (NIAS) in a sample of transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) youth and young adults. Methods Returning patients at a Midwestern gender clinic (n=164) ages 12-23 completed the NIAS, sick, control, one stone, fat, food (SCOFF), patient health questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), and generalized anxiety disorder 7 (GAD-7) during their clinic visit. Age, sex assigned at birth, gender identity, weight, and height were also collected. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to establish the hypothesized three-factor structure of the NIAS in this sample. Relationships between the NIAS subscales and anthropometric data, SCOFF, PHQ-9, GAD-7, and sex assigned at birth were explored for convergent and divergent validity, and proposed screening cutoff scores were used to identify the prevalence of likely avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in this population. Results The three-factor structure of the NIAS was an excellent fit to the current data. Approximately one in five (22%) of the participants screened positive for ARFID. Approximately one in four participants scored above the picky eating (27.4%) or appetite (23.9%) cutoffs. Assigned female at birth participants scored significantly higher on the NIAS-Total, Appetite, and Fear subscales than those assigned male at birth. NIAS-Total was significantly related to all convergent validity variables other than age, with a moderate-strong correlation with other symptom screeners (SCOFF, PHQ-9, GAD-7), and a small negative correlation with body mass index percentile. Conclusions Evidence supports the NIAS as a valid measure to screen for ARFID among TGNB youth and young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah K. Garwood
- Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Christopher B. Lewis
- Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrea M. Giedinghagen
- Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jamie L. Reed
- Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kenny TE, Lewis SP. More than an outcome: a person-centered, ecological framework for eating disorder recovery. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:45. [PMID: 36949489 PMCID: PMC10032254 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00768-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating disorder recovery is a complex phenomenon. While historical understandings focused on weight and behaviours, the importance of psychological factors is now widely recognized. It is also generally accepted that recovery is a non-linear process and is impacted by external factors. Recent research suggests a significant impact of systems of oppression, though these have not yet been named in models of recovery. BODY: In this paper, we propose a research-informed, person-centered, and ecological framework of recovery. We suggest that there are two foundational tenets of recovery which apply broadly across experiences: recovery is non-linear and ongoing and there is no one way to do recovery. In the context of these tenets, our framework considers individual changes in recovery as determined by and dependent on external/personal factors and broader systems of privilege. Recovery cannot be determined by looking solely at an individual's level of functioning; one must also consider the broader context of their life in which changes are being made. To conclude, we describe the applicability of the proposed framework and offer practical considerations for incorporating this framework in research, clinical, and advocacy settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Therese E Kenny
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Stephen P Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Barnhart WR, Cui S, Cui T, Hong D, He J. Transgender congruence, body appreciation, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating in Chinese transgender adults. Int J Eat Disord 2023. [PMID: 36918351 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ample evidence shows that transgender congruence is negatively associated with body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in the Western context; however, limited research has explored these relationships in non-Western populations (e.g., Chinese transgender adults). Moreover, to our knowledge, there has been no research describing disordered eating in Chinese transgender adults. Thus, this study aimed to explore group differences in and relationships between transgender congruence, body appreciation, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating in Chinese transgender adults. METHODS This study examined transgender congruence, body appreciation, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating in a sample of Chinese transgender adults (N = 200). Chi-square, F tests, and correlation analyses were conducted to examine group differences and relationships between study variables. RESULTS Of the transgender adults, 31.0% screened positive as probable eating disorder (ED) cases. There were no gender identity differences in the study variables. Transgender congruence was positively associated body appreciation (r = .40, p < .001) and negatively associated with body dissatisfaction (r = -.26, p < .001) and disordered eating (r = -.15, p = .031). DISCUSSION Chinese transgender adults may be at high risk of EDs. Transgender congruence and body appreciation may serve a protective role in the context of eating pathology in Chinese transgender adults. Future research is needed to validate the observed relationships between transgender congruence, body appreciation, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating in Chinese transgender adults. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE Research on disordered eating and body image in Chinese transgender adults is limited. This study describes disordered eating and its relations with transgender congruence, body appreciation, and body dissatisfaction in Chinese transgender adults. Findings highlight the need for and implications of ED intervention in Chinese transgender adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley R Barnhart
- Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio, USA
| | - Shuqi Cui
- School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tianxiang Cui
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Dinan Hong
- School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinbo He
- School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lawrence SE, Lessard LM, Puhl RM, Foster GD, Cardel MI. "Look beyond the weight and accept me": Adolescent perspectives on parental weight communication. Body Image 2023; 45:11-19. [PMID: 36731347 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Critical weight communication between parents and their adolescent children is prevalent and harmful. However, research on adolescent perspectives about parental weight communication is limited. The present mixed-methods study aimed to address this gap using inductive thematic analysis of 1743 adolescents' (Mage=14.61 years, SDage=2.48) preferences regarding parental weight communication in response to an open-ended prompt, and quantitative analyses to examine age, gender, race/ethnicity, and weight-related differences in subthemes. In their responses, adolescents articulated 1) whether and 2) how parental weight communication should-or should not-occur, and 3) what these conversations should entail. We identified 15 subthemes across these categories-the endorsement of which often varied by adolescents' demographic and anthropometric characteristics. For example, some adolescents (especially cisgender girls and transgender/gender diverse adolescents) preferred that their parents talk about weight less often (n = 184), while others (especially multiracial/ethnic or Hispanic/Latinx adolescents) hoped that, if parents were to discuss weight with them, they do so in a manner that was compassionate and respectful (n = 150). Across most subthemes, adolescents described adverse responses (e.g., feeling insecure, embarrassed, or hurt) when parents discussed their weight in non-preferred ways. Collectively, findings can inform interventions to promote more supportive health-focused communication in families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E Lawrence
- Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Leah M Lessard
- Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Rebecca M Puhl
- Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA; Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Gary D Foster
- WW International, Inc., New York, NY, USA; Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michelle I Cardel
- WW International, Inc., New York, NY, USA; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Harrop EN, Hecht HK, Harner V, Call J, Holloway BT. "How Do I Exist in This Body…That's Outside of the Norm?" Trans and Nonbinary Experiences of Conformity, Coping, and Connection in Atypical Anorexia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1156. [PMID: 36673911 PMCID: PMC9859328 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Addressing eating disorders (EDs) within trans and nonbinary (TNB) populations is a growing concern, as TNB individuals are two to four times more likely to experience EDs than cisgender women. This study explored the lived experiences of TNB people with atypical anorexia by examining how gender identity impacted experiences of ED illness and (potential) recovery. Nine TNB adults with atypical anorexia were followed for one year and completed semi-structured, in-depth, longitudinal qualitative interviews at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Interviews were coded using Braun and Clark's thematic analysis procedures. Four themes, along with subthemes, emerged regarding the intersection of gender identity and ED experiences: (1) Conforming, (2) Coping, (3) Connecting, and (4) Critiquing. In Conforming, participants highlighted how societal pressures around gender contributed to ED vulnerability. In Coping, participants explained that their EDs represented attempts to cope with the overlapping influences of body dissatisfaction, gender dysphoria, and body disconnection. In Connecting, participants described ED recovery as a process of connecting to self, others, and communities that welcomed and affirmed their diverse identities. In Critiquing, participants described how current ED treatment settings were often unwelcoming of or unprepared for non-cisgender patients. Overall, participants viewed their EDs as intricately linked to their gender identity and experiences of social pressure and discrimination. This study suggests the need for targeted ED prevention and intervention efforts within TNB communities, and the ethical imperative to meaningfully address the needs of TNB patients in ED treatment settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin N. Harrop
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA
| | - Hillary K. Hecht
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Vern Harner
- Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | - Jarrod Call
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chaphekar AV, Vance SR, Garber AK, Buckelew S, Ganson KT, Downey A, Nagata JM. Transgender and other gender diverse adolescents with eating disorders requiring medical stabilization. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:199. [PMID: 36564815 PMCID: PMC9789657 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00722-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the high prevalence of eating disorders in gender diverse adolescents, little is known about the characteristics of gender diverse youth with eating disorders who require inpatient medical stabilization. The primary objective of this study was to describe the medical, anthropometric, and psychiatric characteristics of gender diverse adolescents hospitalized for eating disorders and compare these characteristics to cisgender peers hospitalized for eating disorders. The secondary objective was to evaluate percent median body mass index as one marker of malnutrition and treatment goal body mass index as a recovery metric between patients' birth-assigned sex and affirmed gender using standardized clinical growth charts. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted of 463 patients admitted to an inpatient eating disorders medical unit between 2012 and 2020. To compare medical, anthropometric, and psychiatric data between gender diverse and cisgender patients, chi-square/Fisher's exact and t-tests were used. Clinical growth charts matching the patients' birth-assigned sex and affirmed gender identity were used to assess percent of median body mass index and treatment goal body mass index. RESULTS Ten patients (2.2%) identified as gender diverse and were younger than cisgender patients [13.6 (1.5) years vs. 15.6 (2.7) years, p = 0.017]. Gender diverse patients were hospitalized with a higher percent median body mass index compared to cisgender peers [97.1% (14.8) vs. 87.9% (13.7), p = 0.037], yet demonstrated equally severe vital sign instability such as bradycardia [44 (8.8) beats per minute vs. 46 (10.6) beats per minute, p = 0.501], systolic hypotension [84 (7.1) mmHg vs. 84 (9.7) mmHg, p = 0.995], and diastolic hypotension [46 (5.8) mmHg vs. 45 (7.3) mmHg, p = 0.884]. Gender diverse patients had a higher prevalence of reported anxiety symptoms compared to cisgender patients (60% vs. 28%, p = 0.037). CONCLUSIONS Gender diverse patients demonstrated complications of malnutrition including vital sign instability despite presenting with a higher weight. This is consistent with a greater proportion of gender diverse patients diagnosed with atypical anorexia nervosa compared to cisgender peers. Additionally, psychiatric comorbidities were present among both groups, with a larger percentage of gender diverse patients endorsing anxiety compared to cisgender patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita V Chaphekar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Stanley R Vance
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Andrea K Garber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sara Buckelew
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Kyle T Ganson
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amanda Downey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Jason M Nagata
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Box 0503, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Riddle MC, Safer JD. Medical considerations in the care of transgender and gender diverse patients with eating disorders. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:178. [PMID: 36414965 PMCID: PMC9682795 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00699-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals are at increased risk for the development of eating disorders, but very little has been published with regards to the unique aspects of their medical care in eating disorder treatment. Providing gender affirming care is a critical component of culturally competent eating disorder treatment. This includes knowledge of gender affirming medical and surgical interventions and how such interventions may be impacted by eating disordered behaviors, as well as the role of such interventions in eating disorder treatment and recovery. TGD individuals face barriers to care, and one of these can be provider knowledge. By better understanding these needs, clinicians can actively reduce barriers and ensure TGD individuals are provided with appropriate care. This review synthesizes the available literature regarding the medical care of TGD patients and those of patients with eating disorders and highlights areas for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan C Riddle
- Eating Recovery Center, 1231 116Th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356560, Seattle, WA, 98195-6560, USA.
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, 275 7Th Ave 12Th Floor, New York, NY, 10001, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Huckins LM, Signer R, Johnson J, Wu YK, Mitchell KS, Bulik CM. What next for eating disorder genetics? Replacing myths with facts to sharpen our understanding. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3929-3938. [PMID: 35595976 PMCID: PMC9718676 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01601-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Substantial progress has been made in the understanding of anorexia nervosa (AN) and eating disorder (ED) genetics through the efforts of large-scale collaborative consortia, yielding the first genome-wide significant loci, AN-associated genes, and insights into metabo-psychiatric underpinnings of the disorders. However, the translatability, generalizability, and reach of these insights are hampered by an overly narrow focus in our research. In particular, stereotypes, myths, assumptions and misconceptions have resulted in incomplete or incorrect understandings of ED presentations and trajectories, and exclusion of certain patient groups from our studies. In this review, we aim to counteract these historical imbalances. Taking as our starting point the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED) Truth #5 "Eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses", we discuss what we do and do not know about the genetic underpinnings of EDs among people in each of these groups, and suggest strategies to design more inclusive studies. In the second half of our review, we outline broad strategic goals whereby ED researchers can expand the diversity, insights, and clinical translatability of their studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Huckins
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute for Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 14068, USA
| | - Rebecca Signer
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jessica Johnson
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ya-Ke Wu
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Karen S Mitchell
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
McNamara M, Lepore C, Alstott A, Kamody R, Kuper L, Szilagyi N, Boulware S, Olezeski C. Scientific Misinformation and Gender Affirming Care: Tools for Providers on the Front Lines. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:251-253. [PMID: 35787819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anne Alstott
- Yale University School of Law, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Rebecca Kamody
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Laura Kuper
- University of Texas, Southwestern, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Susan Boulware
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Fernandez N, Zuluaga L, Paris G, Norato MJ, Silva JM, Pérez J. Gender Dysphoria Publication Trends: A Bibliometric Analysis between 1900 and 2018. UROLOGÍA COLOMBIANA 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective Research on gender dysphoria (GD) has been growing over the last decades with increasing interest in understanding and characterizing the causal relationships between psychological, genetics, hormonal, and sociocultural factors. Changes and acceptance of this condition as non-pathologic have led to significant changes in general perspective and its management over time. Our objective is to carry out a bibliometric analysis to know the publication trends and quality of evidence related to gender dysphoria.
Methods A systematic search and critical review of the literature was carried out between January 1900 and December 2018 to perform a bibliometric analysis. Research was done in the following databases: OVID, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The medical subject headings (MeSh) terms used were: gender dysphoria; and surgery and psychology. The results were plotted using the VOSviewer version 1.6.8. Statistical analyses were performed with the IBM SPSS, Version 25.0.
Results A total of 1,239 manuscripts were identified, out of which 1,041 were selected. The average number of cited times per year per manuscript is 1.84 (interquartile range [IQR] 0-2.33). The average impact index was 47.8 (IQR 20-111.6). The median of total citations per manuscript was 3 (IQR 0-33.1), and the highest number of citations per manuscript was 484. Most publications focus on the psychological aspects of GD, and there is a significant amount of manuscripts related to social and anthropological issues. Most articles have a low level of scientific evidence.
Conclusion There is a great amount of published literature on GD; however, there is a significant level of disagreement in many respects on this topic. Regarding surgical gender-affirmation, there is a lack of information supported by high level of evidence to uphold the emerging expansion of medical practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Fernandez
- Division of Urology, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Laura Zuluaga
- Urology Department, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia
| | - Gabriela Paris
- Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia
| | - María Juana Norato
- Urology Department, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia
| | - José Miguel Silva
- Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia
| | - Jaime Pérez
- Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ferrucci KA, Lapane KL, Jesdale BM. Prevalence of diagnosed eating disorders in US transgender adults and youth in insurance claims. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 55:801-809. [PMID: 35524487 PMCID: PMC9167760 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We estimated the prevalence of diagnosed eating disorders, overall and by select demographics, among commercially insured individuals identified as transgender in a national claims database. METHODS From the 2018 IBM® MarketScan® Commercial Database, there were 10,415 people identifiable as transgender based on International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) codes and procedure codes, specific to gender-affirming care, from inpatient and outpatient claims. Eating disorders were identified from ICD-10 codes and included anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, eating disorder not otherwise specified, avoidant restrictive feeding and intake disorder, and other specified feeding and eating disorders. We estimated the prevalence of specific eating disorders diagnoses by selecting patient characteristics. RESULTS Of individuals receiving some form of gender-affirming care, 2.43% (95% confidence interval: 2.14%-2.74%) were diagnosed with an eating disorder: 0.84% anorexia nervosa, 0.36% bulimia nervosa, 0.36% binge eating disorder, 0.15% avoidant restrictive feeding and intake disorder, 0.41% other specified feeding and eating disorders, and 1.37% with an unspecified eating disorder. Among transgender-identifiable patients aged 12-15 years, 5.60% had an eating disorder diagnosis, whereas 0.52% had an eating disorder diagnosis in patients aged 45-64 years. DISCUSSION In patients identifiable as transgender, with receipt of gender-affirming care, the prevalence of diagnosed eating disorders was low compared to extant self-reported data for eating disorder diagnosis in transgender individuals. Among this population, eating disorders were highest in adolescents and young adults. Clinically verified prevalence estimates for eating disorder diagnosis in transgender people with a history of gender-affirming care warrant further investigation. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The present study aims to provide clinically validated, contemporary prevalence estimates for diagnosed eating disorders among a medically affirmed population of transgender adults and children in the United States. We report low prevalence of having any eating disorder relative to prevalence estimates reported in prior literature without clinical validation. These findings may be explained by access to affirming care and medical care generally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarina A. Ferrucci
- Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester, MA 01655, United States of America,Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01655, United States of America
| | - Kate L. Lapane
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01655, United States of America
| | - Bill M. Jesdale
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01655, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Moral-Martos A, Guerrero-Fernández J, Gómez Balaguer M, Rica Echevarría I, Campos-Martorell A, Chueca-Guindulain MJ, García García E, Hoyos-Gurrea R, López de Lara D, López-Siguero JP, Martos Tello JM, Mora Palma C, Riaño Galán I, Yeste Fernández D. Clinical practice guidelines for transsexual, transgender and gender diverse minors. An Pediatr (Barc) 2022; 96:349.e1-349.e11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpede.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
|
45
|
Moral-Martos A, Guerrero-Fernández J, Gómez Balaguer M, Rica Echevarría I, Campos-Martorell A, Chueca-Guindulain MJ, García García E, Hoyos-Gurrea R, López de Lara D, López-Siguero JP, Martos Tello JM, Mora Palma C, Riaño Galán I, Yeste Fernández D. Guía clínica de atención a menores transexuales, transgéneros y de género diverso. An Pediatr (Barc) 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
|
46
|
Linsenmeyer W, Garwood S, Waters J. An Examination of the Sex-Specific Nature of Nutrition Assessment within the Nutrition Care Process: Considerations for Nutrition and Dietetics Practitioners Working with Transgender and Gender Diverse Clients. J Acad Nutr Diet 2022; 122:1081-1086. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
47
|
Pellicane MJ, Ciesla JA. Associations between minority stress, depression, and suicidal ideation and attempts in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 91:102113. [PMID: 34973649 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.102113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Minority stress theory posits that transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals exhibit greater rates of depression and suicidality due to internal (proximal) and external (distal) stressors related to their TGD identity. Yet, the magnitude of the relationship between minority stress processes and mental health outcomes has not been quantitatively summarized. The current research meta-analyzed the relationship between minority stress constructs and depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt. Results from 85 cross-sectional quantitative studies indicate that distal stress, expectations of rejection, internalized transphobia, and concealment are significantly associated with increased depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt. Greater effect sizes were observed for expectations of rejection and internalized transphobia when compared to distal stress and concealment. Future research on the relationship between minority stress, depression, and suicide would benefit from longitudinal designs and more diverse and representative samples of TGD individuals.
Collapse
|
48
|
Halbeisen G, Brandt G, Paslakis G. A Plea for Diversity in Eating Disorders Research. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:820043. [PMID: 35250670 PMCID: PMC8894317 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.820043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are often stereotyped as affecting the SWAG, that is, as affecting mostly skinny, White, affluent girls. Over the last decade, however, significant progress has been made toward increasing diversity in ED research. There is consensus that EDs affect individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds, with recent studies exploring social determinants of ED etiology, ED presentation, and developing diversity-affirming ED assessments. This article provides a brief summary of current developments related to diversity as a research theme, and proposes different perspectives toward further improving diversity in ED research. Specifically, we argue for exploring the role of diversity in ED treatment settings and outcomes, for pursuing diversity-oriented research pro-actively rather than as a reaction to issues of under-representation, and for integrating diversity across different areas of medical education and trainings in psychotherapy. Limitations with respect to the paucity of research, and the link between diversity as a research theme and ED-related workforce diversity are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Halbeisen
- University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, Campus East-Westphalia, Ruhr-University Bochum, Luebbecke, Germany
| | - Gerrit Brandt
- University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, Campus East-Westphalia, Ruhr-University Bochum, Luebbecke, Germany
| | - Georgios Paslakis
- University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, Campus East-Westphalia, Ruhr-University Bochum, Luebbecke, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Kirk S, Ogata B, Wichert E, Handu D, Rozga M. Treatment of Pediatric Overweight and Obesity: Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Based on an Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews. J Acad Nutr Diet 2022; 122:848-861. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
50
|
Flatt RE, Norman E, Thornton LM, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Balantekin KN, Smolar L, Mysko C, Wilfley DE, Taylor CB, Bulik CM. Eating disorder behaviors and treatment seeking in self-identified military personnel and veterans: Results of the National Eating Disorders Association online screening. Eat Behav 2021; 43:101562. [PMID: 34534875 PMCID: PMC8952181 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2021.101562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize disordered eating behaviors, eating disorder (ED) risk and diagnosis, and treatment seeking behaviors in active-duty military personnel/veterans compared with civilians. METHOD Self-selecting participants (n = 113,388; 1744 were military personnel/veterans) 18+ years old completed the National Eating Disorders Association's online screen. Engagement in and frequencies of disordered eating behaviors were compared across military/veteran and civilian groups and were stratified by gender. ED risk and diagnosis and treatment seeking behaviors were also compared. RESULTS Individuals in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in diuretic/laxative use and excessive exercise compared with civilians. Compared with civilians, the military/veteran group had a lower percentage who screened "at risk for an ED" and a higher percentage who screened for "no risk". Females in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in diuretic/laxative use, excessive exercise, and fasting compared with female civilians; males in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in excessive exercise and less likely to engage in vomiting than male civilians. Of the self-identified military personnel/veterans who screened positive for any ED, 86% had never received treatment, which did not differ significantly from civilians. Notably, 56.7% of those (54.1% of military/veteran group; 56.7% of civilians) who completed an optional item on intention to seek treatment (n = 5312) indicated they would not seek treatment. CONCLUSIONS Disordered eating and ED profiles, but not treatment seeking, may differ between military personnel/veterans and civilians who complete an online ED screen. Future work should emphasize treatment options and connecting respondents directly to tailored resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Flatt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Elliott Norman
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Laura M Thornton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Lauren Smolar
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Claire Mysko
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Denise E Wilfley
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - C Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for m(2)Health, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|