How common is anorexia and bulimia in Sweden?
Approximately one percent of all girls and women between 14-19 years of age have anorexia. Some 1,5 percent of all girls and women between 17-25 years of age have bulimia. In Sweden there are about 4000 individuals with anorexia and somewhat more with bulimia. More than 95 % of those affected are women and some 5% are men. The proportion of the population with these diagnoses has not changed over the years, but the eating disorder that has increased dramatically in recent years is called EDNOS (Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified). These individuals fulfil only some of the diagnostic criteria for anorexia or bulimia. Today, every third woman in Sweden fulfils the diagnostic criteria for EDNOS!