Prevalence and Beliefs Regarding Eating Disorders among General Population of Pakistan

Background and Objective: Eating disorders are common mental conditions affecting the psychosocial and physical functioning of individuals. The main aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and beliefs of eating disorders among the general population regarding eating disorders in Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to screen and assess beliefs regarding eating disorders. A prevalidated questionnaire Eating Disorders Diagnostic Scale was used for screening eating disorders. The beliefs of respondents were assessed using the Eating Disorder Belief Questionnaire. Three hundred and 82 respondents were selected using the convenience sampling technique. After data collection, data was analyzed statistically in SPSS version 22. Results: The results of the study showed that out of 200 respondents, 17% (n = 34) had the probability of having an eating disorder. The 12% (n = 24) of respondents were afraid that they might gain weight and 6.5% (n = 13) believed that their weight influenced how they thought about themselves. The 1.5% (n = 3) of the respondents faced severe issues in mobility, 1% (n = 2) had issues with self-care, 2% (n = 4) had issues in usual activity, 1% (n = 2) faced pain/discomfort and 4.5% (n = 9) had anxiety/depression. Conclusion: A moderate prevalence of eating disorders and obesity in the Pakistani population. Perceptions of the community about their weight and shape were negative.