Study uncovers promising facts concerning fight against anorexia.
Article Type: Brief article
Subject: Anorexia nervosa (Research)
Anorexia nervosa (Risk factors)
Anorexia nervosa (Control)
Pub Date: 06/22/2008
Publication: Name: Annals of the American Psychotherapy Association Publisher: American Psychotherapy Association Audience: Academic; Professional Format: Magazine/Journal Subject: Psychology and mental health Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2008 American Psychotherapy Association ISSN: 1535-4075
Issue: Date: Summer, 2008 Source Volume: 11 Source Issue: 2
Topic: Event Code: 310 Science & research
Geographic: Geographic Scope: Finland Geographic Code: 4EUFI Finland
Accession Number: 180860856
Full Text: [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

It is widely understood that anorexia nervosa can be a dangerous, severe illness. However, a recent study conducted in Finland shows that the outcome is generally positive for those with the disease. According to scientists at Columbia University and the University of Helsinki in Finland, up to 70% of women suffering from anorexia recover before they reach age 30.

The study showed the average bout with anorexia to be about 3 years, and recovery was gradual. Weight was gained and health was restored, but the real progress involved coming to terms with weight and body image. The study used pairs of twins where the anorexic twin compared her body with the healthy twin. Within 5 years, the anorexic twin was similar to her healthy twin in psychological and self-esteem matters. Weight and body issues took about 5-10 years.

Life after anorexia can be normal for those who have recovered. Women who were still dealing with anorexia were less likely to be in a relationship than healthy women. However, the study showed that women who had fully recovered from anorexia dated, married, and had children as normally as other healthy women.

Information retrieved from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/08/ 070801091258.htm
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