The number of individuals living with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa increased by 71% globally from 1990 to 2023—and is forecast to continue to grow significantly, according to a study published in JAMA Psychiatry.Why It’s Relevant
Eating disorders are a major cause of mental health–related disability, yet no substantial new data on eating disorders have been added to the Global Burden of Disease framework since 2017. There is limited global evidence on the long-term trends, geographic distribution, and future trajectories of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
By the Numbers
- In 2023, an estimated 18.1 million people (69% female) were living with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa globally, of whom 41% were ages 10 to 24. Bulimia nervosa was far more common than anorexia nervosa (14.2 million versus 3.9 million).
- The rates of disability-adjusted life-years for anorexia and bulimia rose by 21% from 1990 to 2023.
- The total number of individuals with these disorders is forecast to increase 20% by 2050, reaching 4.7 million with anorexia nervosa and 17 million with bulimia nervosa.
What’s More
The prevalence of the two disorders was generally higher in Australasia and other high-income regions, which may reflect not only epidemiological differences but also data availability, the researchers wrote.
The Other Side
The researchers incorporated a large volume of new data into the analyses but acknowledged that important gaps remain, particularly in low-income countries. Furthermore, binge eating disorder and other specified feeding disorders were not included in the estimations due to a lack of data on their disability burden.
Takeaway Message
“Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa contribute substantially to global health loss, and their prevalence is forecast to continue increasing,” the researchers wrote. “These findings support strengthening prevention, early detection, and evidence-based treatment capacity, particularly in regions experiencing rapid growth in case numbers, and integrating eating-disorder care into broader mental health strategies.”
Related Information
Source
Ruhai Bai, et al. Global burden of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, 1990 to 2023, with forecasts to 2050: a global burden of disease study 2023 analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. Published October 28, 2026. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2026.3457
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