A 2009 study sheds new light on the dark shadow of health disparities that effect the wellness of black girls and women. The results challenge the long standing belief that bulimia, an eating disorder, affects white girl exclusively. But guess what, that perception along with the facts, may have been horribly wrong.
The study, Caught in the Bulimic Trap: Do Eating Disorders Reflect Addictive Behavior?, conducted by Michelle Goeree, a USC economist, reveals that African-American girls are 50 percent more likely to “exhibit bulimic behavior” than their white counterparts. This discovery changes the face and race of bulimia.
So how did this happen? Goeree says, “One explanation is straightforward: Girls with an eating disorder who are African American or come from low-income families are much less likely to be diagnosed. Who goes to the hospital? Those who have insurance. Who tends to have insurance? Wealthier, better-educated people.”
The study surveyed 2300 girls from California, Ohio, and Washington, DC, over a 10 year period, beginning at around the age of 9 and 10. They were asked not only about eating habits but about body image and depression. The results are startling and eye-opening.
So how do we correct this disparity in health diagnosis, treatment, and recovery? Does this compound the numerous eating, weight, and health issues that African-American women have to face and fight? Should this be addressed by the new White House Council for Women and Girls?
To read the full study go to:http://www-rcf.usc.edu/~goeree/GoereeHamIorio_Jan19.pdf
Blanche Williams 4/10/09
