Towards an Improved Understanding of the Anorexia Nervosa and Autism Spectrum Comorbidity: PEACE Pathway Implementation

Abstract

This paper describes an eating disorder service development pilot project helping clinicians implement evidence-based research for patients with anorexia nervosa and autism spectrum condition comorbidity. Currently, there are no clear guidelines or recommendations for people who have the developmental condition of autism spectrum condition and a comorbid eating disorder. The Maudsley eating disorder team is pioneering a tailored approach of adaptations for this autism and eating disorder comorbidity to improve and adapt evidenced-based treatments and improve the experience for patients, families, and clinicians involved in their care. This paper aims to support the clinical and research community to implement some of the learning and new strategies developed through the PEACE pathway. The authors aim is to collaborate with teams nationally and internationally to scale up the project to benefit patients with this comorbidity.