Eating Disorder Statistics
The numbers behind eating disorders reveal a widespread public health crisis that is often underestimated. These statistics highlight the urgency of awareness, early intervention, and accessible treatment.
Prevalence
How common are eating disorders?
28.8M
Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime
ANAD
9%
Of the U.S. population will have an eating disorder
ANAD
1 in 7
Males will experience an eating disorder by age 40
Nagata et al., 2020
2.7%
Of 13–18 year olds have an eating disorder
NIMH
Mortality & Severity
Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.
10,200
Deaths annually — that's one death every 52 minutes
Deloitte Access Economics
26%
Of people with eating disorders attempt suicide
ANAD
5–10%
Of anorexia sufferers die within 10 years of onset
ANAD
18–20%
Of anorexia cases are fatal after 20 years without treatment
ANAD
Who Is Affected
Eating disorders affect people of every demographic — these statistics challenge common misconceptions.
<6%
Of people with eating disorders are medically underweight
NEDA
25%
Of individuals with anorexia are male
NEDA
13%
Of women over 50 engage in eating disorder behaviors
NEDA
30–40%
Higher rates of eating disorders found in transgender populations
NEDA
Treatment & Recovery
There is a significant gap between those who need treatment and those who receive it.
<25%
Of people with eating disorders receive treatment
ANAD
$1,885
Additional healthcare cost per year per person with eating disorder
Deloitte Report
60%
Of those who receive treatment make a full recovery
NEDA
$64.7B
Annual economic cost of eating disorders in the U.S.
Deloitte Report
Sources & References
- National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) — Eating Disorder Statistics
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) — Statistics & Research on Eating Disorders
- Deloitte Access Economics (2020) — "The Social and Economic Cost of Eating Disorders in the United States of America"
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) — Eating Disorders Statistics
- Nagata, J.M., et al. (2020) — Prevalence and Correlates of Disordered Eating Behaviors, JAMA Network Open
- Arcelus, J., et al. (2011) — "Mortality Rates in Patients With Anorexia Nervosa and Other Eating Disorders," Archives of General Psychiatry
These numbers represent real people.
Behind every statistic is someone who deserves help, compassion, and access to treatment.
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