Sandra E. Fedorovich of the university's Counseling Center says estimates of eating-disorder prevalence vary. Anywhere from 8 to 10 percent of the population may be affected, with national surveys showing weight to be a factor in most Americans' lives. Fedorovich says insurance tables recently reported the number of adult Americans exceeding recommended weight range for their gender, age and body type to have risen to 68 percent.
Obesity also is prevalent among males.
Also, a person may have a distorted perception of body image and obsessive preoccupation with food, calories and nutrition, Fedorovich says. Seek professional support, guidance and information. Look for specialists in your area through your physician, counseling centers, Overeaters Anonymous, nutritionists, Cooperative Extension Services, school systems, friends, or clergy. Eating disorders can cause serious medical consequences. An honest, loving and respectful confrontation can be planned with counseling and treatment options pre-arranged.