Pultizer Prize-winning American columnist Jimmy Breslin wrote a front page feature story on Melanie Cane the author of Poisoned Love. Click on the icon to read Jimmy Breslin's cover story:
Anorexia Statistics
Anorexia statistics show that it has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder, being in the order of 15% over 2- years. It is difficult to get accurate anorexia statistics because so many people try to hide their disorder, because there is a lot of shame attached to the condition. Anorexia statistics show that most (nearly 9 out of 10) anorexics are young women. Only 10% are males. Anorexia statistics show that between 1-5% of all female adolescents and young women are anorexic. The average age of onset is 17. It is rare, but not unheard of, for children under 10 to have this condition. Anorexia statistics show that it is rarely diagnosed after age 40. In my book, Poisoned Love, I describe the onset of my anorexia as being at the age of 13. This is in accord with the anorexia statistics of age of onset.
Anorexia statistics show that the disorder is much more prevalent in western cultures than in non-western countries. This may have to do with the media in western society that portrays thin women as beautiful and desirable. Anorexia statistics do show that anorexia and other eating disorders seem to be on the rise on non-western cultures, possibly due to more exposure to western media and culture.
Anorexia statistics are grim. Anorexia is the 3rd most common chronic illness among adolescents. 5% of those who have eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25. It is estimated that 8 million Americans have n eating disorder-seven million women and 1 million men, and that one in 200 American women suffers from anorexia. Only about 1 in 10 people receive treatment. Without treatment, up to 20% of people with serious eating disorders die. With treatment, 2-3% of people with anorexia die. Anorexia statistics show that mortality rates from anorexia are the highest of any psychological disorder. Anorexia statistics show that with treatment, only 60% make a full recovery. Anorexia statistics also show that about 80% of those who do receive treatment don’t get enough of it. They receive some inpatient care, but are sent home before the recommended length of stay is up. They may leave against medical advice, or their insurance may run out. Anorexia statistic show that inpatient treatment costs an average of $1000 per day, and the recommended length of stay is usually 3 to 6 months. About 20% make a partial recovery, meaning they may be able to hold a job and maintain some superficial relationships, but remain very focused on food and weight. The final 20% stay dangerously underweight. They are seen frequently in emergency rooms, mental health clinics, inpatient hospital units, and eating disorder treatment programs.
People with anorexia can suffer a number of fatal medical conditions. Anorexia statistics indicate that they also experience anxiety, depression, as well as other psychological problems. In my book, Poisoned Love, I make it clear that I suffered depression in addition to anorexia. This is in accord with the anorexia statistics about co-morbidity of psychiatric illnesses.
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