The global prevalence of eating disorders in children and young people: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
The increase in eating disorder (ED) presentations among children and young people (CYP) during the Covid-19 pandemic represents a global health concern, given the associated morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions. We conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the worldwide pooled prevalence of EDs in CYP at a population level. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and LILACS for all English-language studies reporting population level ED prevalence data between January 2013 to February 27th, 2024. The primary outcome was overall prevalence of EDs. We used a random-effects model for the meta-analysis, I2 statistics to assess heterogeneity, and the Hoy scale for quality assessment. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42022333223. Sixteen studies including 77,714 children and young people from 12 countries met eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review, whilst twelve studies with 56,758 participants provided data suitable for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Study quality was moderate; ten studies were classified with a low risk of bias, one with moderate and five with high. The global point prevalence for any ED was 5.23% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 10.05, I2= 99.95%). The commonest type was Other Specified Feeding or ED (point prevalence of 4.88%, 95% CI 1.46 to 8.30, I2= 99.42%), which, like all types of ED was more common among girls (5.25%, 95% CI 0.32 to 10.18, I2= 99.69%) than boys (3.97%, 95% CI 0.45 to 7.49, I2=…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 77,714 participants or records.
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