LIB DEMS URGE ACTION ON EATING DISORDERS FIGURES (Alison McInnes)

Alison McInnes <info@alisonmcinnes.co.uk>

LIB DEMS URGE ACTION ON EATING DISORDERS FIGURES

July 4, 2010 12:00 AM

Figures obtained by Liberal Democrats show a sharp increase in the last three years of the number of young women consulting their GPs about eating disorders.

Answers to Parliamentary Questions show that the number of women aged between 10 and 30 consulting a GP or nurse for an eating disorder rose from 1,206 in 2005/06 to 1,447 in 2008/09. Within these figures, the number of 17-23 year old women consulting a GP or nurse for an eating disorder rose from 434 in 2005/06 to 759 in 2008/09. Although the number of girls aged between 10 and 16 consulting fell, significant numbers are still seeking help.

Further answers also show that 136 young boys and girls were admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of eating disorder in the last two years.

The problem is compounded in the North East as there are no residential beds for young people under the age of 16

Commenting, North East Scotland regional MSP, Alison McInnes said:

"Scotland's battle with the bulge is widely reported, but eating disorders, which can be just as serious, often go unnoticed.

"Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia can be just as lethal as obesity if left untreated. That's why these figures that show a rise in the number of young women approaching their GP or Practice Nurse for help with eating disorders are so concerning. Even more worrying are the figures that show 136 boys and girls were hospitalised with eating disorders.

"I wholeheartedly supported the opening of the Eden Unit based in Aberdeen as it offers residential treatment and therapy to people with diagnosed eating disorders across the region. It is very unfortunate that children in the under 16 age group are unable to be treated there, resulting in them receiving residential care in the central belt.

"We know that Scotland is lagging behind the rest of the UK when it comes to proper support and diagnosis. The Health Secretary must reflect on these figures and take steps to improve care for these vulnerable people."