Can you find the right support for children, adolescents and young adults with anorexia nervosa: Access to age-appropriate care systems in various healthcare systems

Abstract

Objective: Anorexia nervosa (AN) often has its onset in childhood or adolescence. However, there is insufficient knowledge regarding access to and utilisation of age-specific clinical diagnostics and treatment. Methods: A literature review covering the last 10 years was conducted to provide a narrative review of the current state of research on the detection and treatment of young patients with AN in primary and secondary care. Results: Most articles were of Western European or US origin. Timely diagnosis of the eating disorder (ED) and treatment options more often depend on the structure and quality of the national health care system than on scientific evidence. Regular paediatric health check-ups and age-appropriate eating disorder services appear to facilitate early diagnosis. Age-specific treatment that also involves the carers is often associated with a higher continuity of care and a better outcome. Although many adolescents require an extension of treatment into young adulthood, individual and health care system-related obstacles in many countries prevent a smooth transition. Conclusion: To improve outcomes in childhood and adolescent AN, age-specific and timely diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are urgently needed.