- Although eating disorders are much more common in women there is growing evidence that men also suffer from these problems. Experts suggest that about 10% of people with eating disorders are men. The two main problems, anorexia nervosa and bulimia, can occur in men. Several risk factors have been identified and it seems it is more likely to occur in four groups of men:
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- Dieting: in both men and women dieting may precipitate some eating disorders
Occupations which encourage a weight class or lean body image e.g. body builders and jockeys .
Homosexuality: several studies suggest it is more common in homosexual men. The reason is not clear.
Previous Obesity: men who have been obese seem more likely to develop eating disorders.
In general these disorders are very similar in men and women. There are two areas where there is a significant distinction Men tend to develop bulimia a little older than women and more men have been obese in the past.
The best treatment for eating problems of this type in men is not clear at this time. However it is important to recognize that the problem does occur and provide emotional and psychological support for them. Cosmetic plastic surgery in men with an eating disorder is not recommended.
As with women, men's weight is culturally related. Most men prefer to be slightly overweight because they do not want to look wimpy. Many men worry they look puny and so would rather be more fat and this may be a health risk.
Women usually view their ideal weight as too little and men as too much. Even though overweight men are unhappy about being fat they often would often rather be too fat than too thin.
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