Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Eating Disorders in a Large Military Cohort
Abstract
Eating disorders are a public health concern because they are related to a wide variety of health problems such as weight gain/obesity, mental health conditions, and physical health conditions. In addition, people with eating disorders often have difficulties completing work, school, or other daily tasks. The occupational environment for military service may contribute to higher risk for eating disorders among military personnel and Veterans. The risk factors for eating disorders among military Service members are not well understood and have yet to be assessed among spouses of Service members. As such, more information is needed to figure out whether certain aspects of military service are associated with the development and/or relapse of eating disorders among Service members and military spouses. Another area of concern is the fact that mental and behavioral health problems commonly occur with eating disorders. However, researchers are not sure which conditions occur first. The main goals of this study are to: (1) identify rates of eating disorders in military personnel evaluated over many years (up to 15 years), including newly added ones, as well as individual and military-related factors that may make individuals more likely to develop an eating disorder; (2) determine whether individuals with mental health disorders are more likely to develop eating disorders as well as whether people with eating disorders are more likely to develop mental health disorders; and (3) identify factors that might make military spouses more likely to have eating disorders. Examples of factors to be examined include: sex, age, military Service branch (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or Air Force), military deployments with or without combat, problems related to drinking alcohol, sexual assault, and mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder or depression. We will examine two large survey databases with information collected from Service members (n = 201,620) and their military spouses (N = 9872). These databases contain information on eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or problematic drinking, along with additional information on health, well-being, behaviors, and military experiences like combat deployment. Medical records will be combined with this database to identify as many cases of eating disorders as possible. The research described in this proposal will help Service members by providing information on rates of eating disorders and which factors (e.g., age, Service branch, combat deployment) contribute to certain individuals developing or having recurring eating disorders. This information on risk factors will be used to develop trainings and educational materials that could help prevent or contribute to early identification of eating disorders. If this research can detect a pattern for the timing of eating disorders and mental health disorders among those Service members who have both conditions, treatments can be developed to treat both conditions simultaneously. This information can also help inform military leadership and the civilian population about the potential impact of eating disorders on Service member and family health.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 10, 2021
- Source ID
- W81XWH2010765
Entities
People
- Shira Maguen
Organizations
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education
- United States Army