Which demographic is most commonly affected by Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss, and it predominantly affects adolescent populations. Research shows that while both men and women can struggle with anorexia, the highest rates are found among adolescent girls. This demographic is particularly susceptible due to a combination of social pressures, societal standards of beauty, and developmental factors that can influence body image concerns.

Adolescence is a critical period during which individuals are establishing their identities, and girls, in particular, are often exposed to unrealistic ideals portrayed in media. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors as they strive to meet those ideals. In contrast, other demographics such as children under 12, only women over 50, and older adults do not exhibit the same level of prevalence when it comes to anorexia nervosa, as the disorder typically arises during the teenage years, often triggered by the complexities of growing up and navigating societal expectations.