Eating disorder study shows pandemic increased new cases, hospitalizations

The study shows cases and hospitalizations for newly diagnosed anorexia nervosa among patients aged nine to 18 increased during the first wave of the pandemic. The disease has the same symptoms as anorexia but without a low body weight. Researchers found that, during the first wave, monthly new cases of anorexia and atypical anorexia increased by over 60% and monthly hospitalization nearly tripled compared to pre-pandemic rates. The largest increases in both new anorexia diagnoses and related hospitalizations were reported in Que. and Ont., which had the highest mortality per capita rate and the most restrictive lockdowns. The study notes lockdowns led to substantial changes that can lead to risk factors for developing an eating disorder. Researchers stress the need to be better prepared for the mental health needs of children and adolescents with eating disorders in the event of future pandemics or prolonged social isolation.