By: SOHINI SAHA, INDU BHAUMIK, SUBIR BISWAS
This study examines the prevalence of eating disorders among young adult students in Kolkata and their socio-demographic associations. A total of 25.43% of students were at risk of developing an eating disorder. Significant differences were found in age, residency, and sibling status between at-risk and normal groups. Chi-square analysis identified a significant relationship between BMI status and eating disorder risk. BMI (r = 0.312, p < 0.001), residency (r = 0.193, p < 0.001), and education level (r = 0.121, p = 0.037) showed significant positive correlations, while sibling status (r = -0.212, p < 0.001) showed a significant negative correlation. Eating disorders are often influenced by societal pressures and concerns about body image. Once considered a Western issue, eating disorders are now increasing in non-Western countries, including India. Both sexes were equally vulnerable to eating disorders in this metropolitan city. Younger individuals, hostel residents, and only children showed greater susceptibility to eating disorders.
