The impact of our research
Eating disorders appear to be on the rise in Australia, but treatment options are limited. Identifying the specific genes that increase an individual’s risk is crucial. Not only will this help improve treatment, but it will ultimately save lives.
QIMR Berghofer researchers are leading the Australian arm of the world’s largest genetic investigation into eating disorders.
As part of this, we’ve helped identify eight genes associated with anorexia nervosa.
We’re using cognitive neuroscience to create tools that measure, monitor, and help optimise brain health.
About eating disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses, usually characterised by disordered eating habits and an unhealthy preoccupation with eating, weight, body shape, and food.
They can cause severe and permanent physical complications and, in severe cases, can even lead to death.
Eating disorders are not a choice. They are serious illnesses.
There are four main types of eating disorders:
• anorexia nervosa
• bulimia nervosa
• binge-eating disorder
• other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED).
Eating disorders are complex conditions influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, behavioural, psychological, and social factors.
You’re more at risk of developing an eating disorder if you:
• have a family history of eating disorders
• have low self-esteem, poor body image, perfectionism, difficulty expressing emotions, and feelings of inadequacy
• have abnormalities in brain chemistry and hormonal imbalances
• are highly susceptible to societal pressures to attain a certain body shape or weight, as well as cultural ideals that promote thinness
• are predisposed to restrictive dieting, excessive exercise, and other weight-related behaviours.
Eating disorders affect people of all ages, gender, race, and sexual orientation. They are commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young adults, but many people are diagnosed later in life.
People with eating disorders frequently present with psychiatric co-morbidities including mood disorders (such as depression), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, and suicide. Individuals with eating disorders can also present with serious medical complications and may need to be hospitalised.
Behaviours that may be linked with eating disorders include:
• dieting
• binge eating
• purging
• too much exercise
• eating in private
• sensitivity around body image.
Physical symptoms of eating disorders may include:
• changes in weight or rapid weight loss
• disturbed menstrual cycle (periods)
• dizziness
• fatigue
• being cold even in warm weather.
Approximately one in 20 Australians – an estimated 4–7% of the adult population – is living with an eating disorder.
Eating disorders appear to be on the rise. Disordered eating was observed to double in Australian communities over a 10-year period.
Currently, the available treatment options for eating disorders are limited. No medications are approved or are effective in the treatment of anorexia nervosa.
By identifying genes and gene pathways that impact an individual’s risk of developing these disorders, we can potentially open new avenues for drug repurposing or discovery.