Informing the development of Australia's National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy: a rapid review methodology

Evaluation of an eating disorder screening and care pathway implementation in a general mental health private inpatient setting

BACKGROUND

General mental health inpatient units hold a valuable place in the stepped system of care, and for identification and treatment of people with eating disorders (EDs) or disordered eating behaviours (DEBs). This study aimed to pragmatically evaluate an evidence-informed screening and care pathway, alongside a staff education program, implemented to improve identification and treatment access for consumers with EDs and DEBs, with co-occurring psychiatric conditions, on a general mental health ward.

METHODS

A mixed methodology design was mapped to the RE-AIM implementation framework. It encompassed medical record audits across two 3-month time points pre and post implementation of the pathway, and key informant consumer and health professional interviews.

RESULTS

Process and implementation data were compared for three-month periods pre (2019, n = 348) and post-implementation (2021, n = 284). Post-implementation, intake SCOFF screening occurred in 94.7% of admissions. People with ED/DEBs diagnoses were 35 times more likely to have a SCOFF score ≥ 2 (OR = 35.2, p < .001) with the odds of identifying previously undiagnosed DEBs 3.3 times greater (p = .002). Post-implementation, for those with an ED/DEB, dietitian referrals (p < .001) and micronutrient supplementation (p = .013) were more likely. For those with weight and height data, both absolute (-1.1 kg ± 2.2 vs. 1.3 kg ± 2.3; p < .001) and percentage weight change were significantly higher post-implementation with similarities across BMI categories. Universally, consumers and health professionals expressed that the service had "changed care for the better" encouraging therapeutic relationships, mediated by trust, that resulted in better consumer outcomes. 50 health professionals undertook tailored ED and meal support therapy education. They noted that their knowledge and confidence improved allowing value to be seen in understanding EDs and the role for care within general mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that an articulated screening and care pathway could be feasibly implemented in general mental health. The evaluation demonstrated advances in ED detection and management with noted improvements in management access, care planning, physical monitoring and weight gain outcomes. Understanding stakeholders' experiences of new care practices enabled the identification of enablers and barriers for implementation, and avenues to optimise care for consumers with EDs in the general mental health setting.

Psychotherapies for eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Psychotherapy is considered central to the effective treatment of eating disorders-focusing on behavioural, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the illness. Research indicates psychotherapeutic interventions out-perform placebo, waitlist, and/or other treatments; but, outcomes vary with room for major improvement. Thus, this review aims to (1) establish and consolidate knowledge on efficacious eating disorder psychotherapies; (2) highlight select emerging psychotherapeutic interventions; and (3) identify knowledge gaps to better inform future treatment research and development.

METHODS

The current review forms part of a series of Rapid Reviews published in a special issue in the Journal of Eating Disorders to inform the development of the Australian-government-funded National Eating Disorder Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031. Three databases were searched for studies published between 2009 and 2023, published in English, and comprising high-level evidence studies (meta-analyses, systematic reviews, moderately sized randomised controlled studies, moderately sized controlled-cohort studies, and population studies). Data pertaining to psychotherapies for eating disorders were synthesised and outlined in the current paper.

RESULTS

281 studies met inclusion criteria. Behavioural therapies were most commonly studied, with cognitive-behavioural and family-based therapies being the most researched; and thus, having the largest evidence-base for treating anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Other therapies, such as interpersonal and dialectical behaviour therapies also demonstrated positive treatment outcomes. Emerging evidence supports specific use of Acceptance and Commitment; Integrative Cognitive Affective; Exposure; Mindfulness; and Emotionally-Focused therapies; however further research is needed to determine their efficacy. Similarly, growing support for self-help, group, and computer/internet-based therapeutic modalities was noted. Psychotherapies for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder; other, and unspecified feeding and eating disorders were lacking evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, clinical practice is largely supported by research indicating that behavioural and cognitive-behavioural psychotherapies are most effective for the treatment of eating disorders. However, the efficacy of psychotherapeutic interventions varies across studies, highlighting the need for investment and expansion of research into enhanced variants and novel psychotherapies to improve illness outcomes. There is also a pressing need for investigation into the whole range of eating disorder presentations and populations, to determine the most effective interventions.

Pharmacotherapy, alternative and adjunctive therapies for eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

The current review broadly summarises the evidence base for pharmacotherapies and adjunctive and alternative therapies in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating.

METHODS

This paper forms part of a Rapid Review series examining the evidence base in the field of eating disorders. This was conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorder Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2030. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline were searched for included studies published between 2009 and 2021 in English. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and randomised control trials were prioritised, and grey literature excluded. Data from included studies relating to pharmacotherapy, and to adjunctive and alternative therapies in eating disorders, were synthesised and disseminated in the current review.

RESULTS

A total of 121 studies were identified, relating to pharmacotherapy (n = 90), adjunctive therapies (n = 21) and alternative therapies (n = 22). Some of the identified studies involved combinations of the above (e.g. adjunctive pharmacotherapy). Evidence of efficacy of interventions across all three categories was very limited with few relevant high quality clinical trials. There was a particular scarcity of evidence around effective treatments for anorexia nervosa (AN). With treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN), fluoxetine has exhibited some efficacy leading to regulatory approval in some countries. With binge eating disorder (BED), recent evidence supports the use of lisdexamfetamine. Neurostimulation interventions show some emerging efficacy in the treatment of AN, BN and BED but some, such as deep brain stimulation can be highly invasive.

CONCLUSION

Despite widespread use of medications, this Rapid Review has identified a lack of effective medications and adjunctive and alternative therapies in the treatment of EDs. An intensification of high-quality clinical trial activity and drug discovery innovation are required to better assist patients suffering from EDs.

Eating disorder outcomes: findings from a rapid review of over a decade of research

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (ED), especially Anorexia Nervosa (AN), are internationally reported to have amongst the highest mortality and suicide rates in mental health. With limited evidence for current pharmacological and/or psychological treatments, there is a grave responsibility within health research to better understand outcomes for people with a lived experience of ED, factors and interventions that may reduce the detrimental impact of illness and to optimise recovery. This paper aims to synthesise the literature on outcomes for people with ED, including rates of remission, recovery and relapse, diagnostic crossover, and mortality.

METHODS

This paper forms part of a Rapid Review series scoping the evidence for the field of ED, conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, funded and released by the Australian Government. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/MEDLINE were searched for studies published between 2009 and 2022 in English. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and Randomised Controlled Trials were prioritised through purposive sampling. Data from selected studies relating to outcomes for people with ED were synthesised and are disseminated in the current review.

RESULTS

Of the over 1320 studies included in the Rapid Review, the proportion of articles focused on outcomes in ED was relatively small, under 9%. Most evidence was focused on the diagnostic categories of AN, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder, with limited outcome studies in other ED diagnostic groups. Factors such as age at presentation, gender, quality of life, the presence of co-occurring psychiatric and/or medical conditions, engagement in treatment and access to relapse prevention programs were associated with outcomes across diagnoses, including mortality rates.

CONCLUSION

Results are difficult to interpret due to inconsistent study definitions of remission, recovery and relapse, lack of longer-term follow-up and the potential for diagnostic crossover. Overall, there is evidence of low rates of remission and high risk of mortality, despite evidence-based treatments, especially for AN. It is strongly recommended that research in long-term outcomes, and the factors that influence better outcomes, using more consistent variables and methodologies, is prioritised for people with ED.

The economic impact of eating disorders in children and youth in Canada: a call to action to improve youth eating disorder research and care

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented rise in rates and symptoms of eating disorders among Canadian youth. To date, there is a lack of national surveillance and costing data in Canada to inform policymakers and healthcare leaders on how to best address the surge in new and existing cases. This has resulted in the Canadian healthcare system being unprepared to adequately respond to the increased needs. Therefore, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, decision-makers, and community organizations across Canada are collaborating to compare pre-and post-pandemic costing data from national and province-level healthcare systems in an effort to address this gap. Results from this economic cost analysis will be an important first step in informing and guiding policy on possible adaptations to services to better fulfill the needs of youth with eating disorders in Canada. We highlight how gaps in surveillance and costing data can impact the field of eating disorders in an international context.

Prevention and early intervention in eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (EDs) are complex psychological disorders, with low rates of detection and early intervention. They can lead to significant mental and physical health complications, especially if intervention is delayed. Given high rates of morbidity and mortality, low treatment uptake, and significant rates of relapse, it is important to examine prevention, early intervention, and early recognition initiatives. The aim of this review is to identify and evaluate literature on preventative and early intervention programs in EDs.

METHODS

This paper is one of a series of Rapid Reviews, designed to inform the Australian National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, funded, and released by the Australian Government. To provide a current and rigorous review, peer-reviewed articles between 2009 and 2021 published in English were searched across three databases: ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline. Priority was given to high-level evidence including meta-analyses, systematic reviews, Randomised Control Trials, and large population studies. Findings from selected studies pertaining to prevention and early intervention in EDs were evaluated and are presented in this review.

RESULTS

In total, 130 studies were identified in the current review, 72% relating to prevention and 28% to early intervention. Most programs were theory-driven and targeted one or more ED risk factors such as thin-ideal internalisation and/or body dissatisfaction. There is reasonable evidence to support prevention programs reducing risk factors, particularly as part of school or university-based programs, with established feasibility and relatively high acceptance among students. There is increasing evidence around the use of technology (to increase dissemination potential) and for use of mindfulness approaches (targeting emotional resilience). Few longitudinal studies assessing incident cases following participation in a prevention program exist.

CONCLUSIONS

Although several prevention and early intervention programs have been shown to significantly reduce risk factors, promote symptom recognition, and encourage help-seeking behaviour, most of these studies have been conducted in older adolescent and university aged students, past the age of peak ED onset. One of the most targeted risk factors, body dissatisfaction, is found in girls as young as 6 years old, indicating a need for further research implementing prevention initiatives at younger ages. Follow-up research is limited; thus, the long-term efficacy and effectiveness of studied programs is unknown. Greater attention should be paid to the implementation of prevention and early intervention programs in identified high-risk cohorts or diverse groups, where a more targeted approach may be necessary.

Prevention of eating disorders: 2022 in review

This review of 17 prevention-related publications in Eating Disorders during 2022 is framed by three models: (1) Mental Health Intervention Spectrum: health promotion ➔ types of prevention ➔ case identification/referral ➔ treatment; (2) the prevention cycle: rationale and theory, shaped by critical reviews ➔ clarifying risk and protective factors ➔ program innovation and feasibility studies ➔ efficacy and effectiveness research ➔ program dissemination; and (3) definitions of and links between disordered eating (DE) and eating disorders (EDs). Five articles fell into the category of prevention rationale, theory, and critical analyses, while seven articles addressed risk factors (RFs) for various aspects of DE. Eating Disorders also published two pilot studies, two prevention efficacy trials, and one effectiveness study in 2022. One implication of the 17 articles reviewed is that RF research toward construction of selective and indicated prevention programs for diverse at-risk groups should address a broad range of factors beyond negative body image and internalization of beauty ideals. Another implication is that, to expand and improve current and forthcoming prevention programs, and to shape effective advocacy for prevention-oriented social policy, the field in general and Eating Disorders in particular need more scholarship in the form of critical reviews and meta-analyses, protective factor research, and case studies of multi-step activism at the local, state (province, region), and national levels.

Epidemiology of eating disorders: population, prevalence, disease burden and quality of life informing public policy in Australia-a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Understanding of the epidemiology and health burden of eating disorders has progressed significantly in the last 2 decades. It was considered one of seven key areas to inform the Australian Government commissioned National Eating Disorder Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, as emerging research had highlighted a rise in eating disorder prevalence and worsening burden-of-illness. The aim of this review was to better understand the global epidemiology and impact of eating disorders to inform policy decision-making.

METHODS

Using a systematic Rapid Review methodology, ScienceDirect, PubMed and Medline (Ovid) were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between 2009 and 2021. Clear inclusion criteria were developed in consultation with experts in the field. Purposive sampling of literature was conducted, which predominately focused on higher-level evidence (meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and large epidemiological studies), synthesised, and narratively analysed.

RESULTS

135 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in this review (N = 1324). Prevalence estimates varied. Global Lifetime prevalence of any eating disorder ranged from 0.74 to 2.2% in males, and 2.58-8.4% in females. Australian 3-month point-prevalence of broadly defined disorders was around 16% in females. Eating disorders appeared more prevalent in young people and adolescents, particularly females (in Australia: eating disorders ~ 22.2%; disordered eating ~ 25.7%). Limited evidence was found on sex, sexuality and gender diverse (LGBTQI +) individuals, particularly males, who had a six-fold increase in prevalence compared to the general male population, with increased illness impact. Similarly, limited evidence on First Australian's (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) suggests prevalence rates similar to non-Indigenous Australians. No prevalence studies were identified specifically assessing culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Global disease burden of any eating disorder was 43.4 age-standardised disability-adjusted-life-years per 100,000; increasing by 9.4% between 2007 and 2017. Australian's total economic cost was estimated at $84 billion from years-of-life lost due to disability and death, and annual lost earnings ~ $1.646 billion."

CONCLUSIONS

There is no doubt that eating disorder prevalence and impact are on the rise, particularly in at-risk and understudied populations. Much of the evidence came from female-only samples, and Western, high-income countries which more readily have access to specialised services. Future research should examine more representative samples. There is an urgent need for more refined epidemiological methods to better understand these complex illnesses over time, to guide health policy and development-of-care.

Risk factors for eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Risk factors represent a range of complex variables associated with the onset, development, and course of eating disorders. Understanding these risk factors is vital for the refinement of aetiological models, which may inform the development of targeted, evidence-based prevention, early intervention, and treatment programs. This Rapid Review aimed to identify and summarise research studies conducted within the last 12 years, focusing on risk factors associated with eating disorders.

METHODS

The current review forms part of a series of Rapid Reviews to be published in a special issue in the Journal of Eating Disorders, funded by the Australian Government to inform the development of the National Eating Disorder Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031. Three databases were searched for studies published between 2009 and 2021, published in English, and comprising high-level evidence studies (meta-analyses, systematic reviews, moderately sized randomised controlled studies, moderately sized controlled-cohort studies, or population studies). Data pertaining to risk factors for eating disorders were synthesised and outlined in the current paper.

RESULTS

A total of 284 studies were included. The findings were divided into nine main categories: (1) genetics, (2) gastrointestinal microbiota and autoimmune reactions, (3) childhood and early adolescent exposures, (4) personality traits and comorbid mental health conditions, (5) gender, (6) socio-economic status, (7) ethnic minority, (8) body image and social influence, and (9) elite sports. A substantial amount of research exists supporting the role of inherited genetic risk in the development of eating disorders, with biological risk factors, such as the role of gut microbiota in dysregulation of appetite, an area of emerging evidence. Abuse, trauma and childhood obesity are strongly linked to eating disorders, however less conclusive evidence exists regarding developmental factors such as role of in-utero exposure to hormones. Comorbidities between eating disorders and mental health disorders, including personality and mood disorders, have been found to increase the severity of eating disorder symptomatology. Higher education attainment, body image-related factors, and use of appearance-focused social media are also associated with increased risk of eating disorder symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Eating disorders are associated with multiple risk factors. An extensive amount of research has been conducted in the field; however, further studies are required to assess the causal nature of the risk factors identified in the current review. This will assist in understanding the sequelae of eating disorder development and in turn allow for enhancement of existing interventions and ultimately improved outcomes for individuals.

Psychiatric and medical comorbidities of eating disorders: findings from a rapid review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (EDs) are potentially severe, complex, and life-threatening illnesses. The mortality rate of EDs is significantly elevated compared to other psychiatric conditions, primarily due to medical complications and suicide. The current rapid review aimed to summarise the literature and identify gaps in knowledge relating to any psychiatric and medical comorbidities of eating disorders.

METHODS

This paper forms part of a rapid review) series scoping the evidence base for the field of EDs, conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, funded and released by the Australian Government. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline were searched for English-language studies focused on the psychiatric and medical comorbidities of EDs, published between 2009 and 2021. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and Randomised Control Trials were prioritised.

RESULTS

A total of 202 studies were included in this review, with 58% pertaining to psychiatric comorbidities and 42% to medical comorbidities. For EDs in general, the most prevalent psychiatric comorbidities were anxiety (up to 62%), mood (up to 54%) and substance use and post-traumatic stress disorders (similar comorbidity rates up to 27%). The review also noted associations between specific EDs and non-suicidal self-injury, personality disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders. EDs were complicated by medical comorbidities across the neuroendocrine, skeletal, nutritional, gastrointestinal, dental, and reproductive systems. Medical comorbidities can precede, occur alongside or emerge as a complication of the ED.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides a thorough overview of the comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions co-occurring with EDs. High psychiatric and medical comorbidity rates were observed in people with EDs, with comorbidities contributing to increased ED symptom severity, maintenance of some ED behaviours, and poorer functioning as well as treatment outcomes. Early identification and management of psychiatric and medical comorbidities in people with an ED may improve response to treatment and overall outcomes.

Screening, assessment and diagnosis in the eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Limited screening practices, minimal eating disorder training in the healthcare professions, and barriers related to help-seeking contribute to persistent low rates of eating disorder detection, significant unmet treatment need, and appreciable associated disease burden. The current review sought to broadly summarise the literature and identify gaps relating to the screening, assessment, and diagnosis of eating disorders within Western healthcare systems.

METHODS

This paper forms part of a Rapid Review series scoping the evidence base for the field of eating disorders, conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, funded and released by the Australian Government. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline were searched for studies published between 2009 and mid 2021 in English. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and Randomised Control Trials were prioritised through purposive sampling. Data from selected studies relating to Screening, Assessment and Diagnosis of eating disorders were synthesised and are disseminated in the current review.

RESULTS

Eighty seven studies were identified, 38% relating to screening and 62% to assessment and diagnosis. The majority of screening studies were conducted in university student samples, showing high prevalence but only modest improvements in help-seeking in those studies that followed up post-screen. In healthcare settings, clinicians continue to have difficulty identifying eating disorder presentations, particularly Binge Eating Disorder, Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders, and sub-threshold eating disorders. This is preceded by inadequate and frequently homogenous screening mechanisms and exacerbated by considerable personal and health-system barriers, including self-stigma and lack of resourcing. While all groups are at risk of delayed or no diagnosis, those at particular risk include LGBTQ+ and gender diverse individuals, individuals living in larger bodies, and males.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of individuals with eating disorders remain undiagnosed and untreated despite a high prevalence of these conditions and increased advocacy in recent years. Research into improving detection and clinician diagnostic skill is extremely limited. Innovative empirical research is strongly recommended to address significant individual and health-system barriers currently preventing appropriate and timely intervention for many. Limited screening in healthcare settings and low rates of eating disorder training in the healthcare professions are just some of the barriers to help-seeking which may contribute to delayed intervention and diagnosis in the eating disorders. This has significant impacts, prolonging treatment when it is finally received, and increasing healthcare costs for both the individual and the healthcare system. The current review is part of a larger Rapid Review series conducted to inform the development of Australia's National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031. A Rapid Review is designed to comprehensively summarise a body of literature in a short timeframe, often to guide policy-making and address urgent health concerns. The Rapid Review synthesises the current evidence-base and identifies gaps in eating disorder research and care, in order to guide decision making and address urgent health concerns. This paper gives a critical overview of the scientific literature relating to the current state of screening, assessment, and diagnosis of eating disorders within Western healthcare systems that may inform health policy and research in an Australian context. It covers screening initiatives in both general and high-risk populations; personal, clinician and healthcare system challenges relating to help-seeking; and obstacles to accurate and timely clinical diagnosis across the eating disorders.