She was full of beans, full of life. But there was recognition that she might be having problems, he said, at a traditionally difficult time when young dancers make the jump into a major company. Men are not immune to eating disorders. But they are much more prevalent in women, in part because society and the world of ballet place a higher value on women's looks. Dr. Warren said.
Dance is one of the worst areas.
The average incidence of eating disorders in the white middle-class population is 1 in 100. In classical ballet, it is one in five. Men tend to start thir dance training later. With fewer in the field, they experience less competition. And a part of their work, partnering, requires solid muscles and strength.