Eating problems in female Japanese high school students: A prevalence study

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of eating problems and to identify factors associated with the eating problems among Japanese high school girls. METHODS: This study used a cross-sectional design. The study population was 3,032 female students attending three high schools in Fukushima, Japan. The 26-item version of the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) was administered to assess eating problems. Inquiries were also made regarding possible risk factors for the eating problems. RESULTS: Of the 2,685 subjects, 5.4% had a total EAT-26 score above the cutoff point (20 < or =). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that older age, higher body mass index, a distorted body image, obsessive-compulsive tendency, and some familial issues were independently related to the eating problems. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of eating problems in the Japanese female population was low compared with reports from Western countries. In addition, distorted body image was suggested to have the greatest influence on eating problems.