Screening for Identification of Binge Eating Disorder in Adolescents

Abstract

The rapid growth of adolescent obesity suggests an increased prevalence of eating pathologies specifically, Binge Eating Disorder (BED). Binge Eating Disorder is the most prevalent eating disorder and is the foremost chronic illness among adolescents. The clinical presentation of BED in adolescents can be atypical compared to adults, thus, possibly contributing to BED being “underrecognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated.” The gap in research suggest there is insufficient screening for BED in adolescents by primary care providers (PCP)s at routine primary care visits due to provider’s inadequate knowledge of the incidence and impact of BED on adolescent obesity and unfamiliarity of management guidelines. The purpose of the evidenced-based project was to improve early identification and management of ABED through improvement of PCP awareness and knowledge by 1) utilization of an evidenced-based ABED screening and assessment tool for early recognition and diagnosis of adolescents at risk or exhibiting symptoms of BED and 2) utilizing evidenced-based ABED management pathways appropriately. The project used the IOWA MODEL: Evidenced- Based Practice to Promote Excellence in Health Care. The results of this project further identified the need for screening and appropriate management of BED in adolescents. The project was successful in creating an EBP practice change supporting the benefit of screening for BED in adolescents.