Anorexia nervosa (AN) is eating disorder that is a form of self-starvation. A child or teen with AN has abnormally low body weight, a distorted body image, and an intense fear of gaining weight.

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia have risen steadily to affect nearly 10 million women (and 1 million men).

Bulimia nervosa is defined as uncontrolled episodes of overeating (bingeing) usually followed by self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, enemas, or medications in an attempt to control weight.

At least 8 million people in the U.S. are living with an eating disorder. The overwhelming majority – about 90 percent – are female.