Anorexia is an eating disorder that is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to dangerously low body weight, and distorted body image. While it can affect people of any age, anorexia is most commonly seen in teenage girls and young women.
Although anorexia is often thought to be a problem that only affects older teens, the disorder can start as early as childhood. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), the average age of onset for anorexia is between 15 and 17 years old. However, some studies have found that as many as one in five anorexia cases begin before the age of 12.
The younger age of onset has been linked to a number of factors, including increased pressure from peers and society to look a certain way, as well as an increase in the availability of dieting information on the internet. This can lead to a dangerous cycle of self-starvation, which can be difficult to break out of and can have serious health consequences.
It is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of anorexia, such as extreme weight loss, excessive exercise, and an obsession with food, so that they can recognize the disorder early and get their child the help they need. Early intervention and treatment can make all the difference in a successful recovery.