Update on binge eating disorder; What general practitioners should know

Abstract

Background The prevalence of eating disorders in Australia is increasing. Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most prevalent form of disordered eating. Many people with BED are overweight. This compounds the problem due to weight stigma and the typical conception of someone with an eating disorder being underweight, leading to the under-recognition of eating disorders in this population group. Objective The aim of this article is to update general practitioners (GPs) on how to screen patients for eating disorders across the entire weight spectrum and to diagnose, treat and monitor patients with BED. Discussion GPs have an important role in the screening, assessment, diagnosis and coordination of treatment for patients with eating disorders, including BED. Treatment for BED includes psychological counselling, diet and, at times, medication. These treatments are explored in the paper, alongside the clinical processes for diagnosis and ongoing care.