Men more frequently use excessive and obsessive exercise and body-building prior to and during their eating disorder. Issues relating to sexuality and gender identity are sometimes associated with male eating disorders and there appears to be a higher rate of eating disorders among gay males. The signs, symptoms and treatment needs of eating disorders in males are similar to those of women. Athletes and Eating Disorders Eating disorders and disordered eating are significant problems for many athletes and a greater risk is associated with sports in which anaerobic activities predominate over aerobic activities. Female athletes are especially at risk in sports which emphasize a thin body or appearance, such as gymnastics, ballet, figure skating, swimming or distance running.
Male athletes are especially at risk in body building and wrestling.
Eating disorders may result in symptoms that interfere with athletic performance and impair athletic capacity. Washington DC, 1994. Maine, M. Men with Eating Disorders . National Eating Disorders Screening Program educational newsletter, Wellesley, MA, 1998. National Institute of Mental Health.