Eating Disorders in Athletes

September 2001

Eating disorders adversely affect sporting performance and have long-lasting and devastating impact on the lives of sufferers.
People working with athletes need to be well versed in the warning signs and risk factors associated with eating disorders and employ risk reduction strategies in their work.
There is a range of risk factors that may contribute to the onset of eating disorders in athletes. It is unknown whether sport plays a contributory or preventative role in the onset. However, there is an increased prevalence in various types of sports that focus on size, weight and appearance.
Eating disorders are serious and need a multidisciplinary team approach for proper diagnosis and treatment.