Eating Disorder Research

 

Eating Disorders Research

Eating Disorder

More than 43% of Australians are highly concerned about their body image. Negative body image affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, and can lead to risky behaviours such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and the pursuit of cosmetic surgery. Negative body image is the strongest risk factor for the development of eating disorders, the most deadly of all mental health conditions.

"Understanding the link between biological, psychological and social factors
to discover better treatments for eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa"

Over one million Australians have an eating disorder. Eating disorders are highly prevalent and have a high morbidity and mortality. The onset and severity of anorexia nervosa and bulimia can be influenced by a number of factors, including a lived experience of trauma.

The existence of effective treatment options for eating disorders is limited. We are implementing a suite of research focussed on understanding the underlying biological causes and changes associated with these disorders so we can translate the findings into innovative and effective treatments. Trials include the use of antipsychotics medications, cannabinoid products, hormone treatment and brain stimulation devices. These trials are currently under development and funding is being sought to support their conduct.

 MAPrc Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Level 4, 607 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3004

 © MAPrc 2013. Designed and hosted by Infoxchange Australia