Definition of Anorexia nervosa:

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that makes people lose more weight than is considered healthy for their age and height.

Persons with this disorder may have an intense fear of weight gain, even when they are underweight. They may diet or exercise too much, or use other methods to lose weight.

See also:Bulimia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The exact causes of anorexia nervosa are unknown. Many factors probably are involved. Genes and hormones may play a role. Social attitudes promoting very thin body types may also be involved.

Family conflicts are no longer thought to contribute to this or other eating disorders.

Risk factors for anorexia include:

• Trying to be perfect or overly focused on rules
• Being more worried about, or paying more attention to, weight and shape
• Having eating problems during infancy or early childhood
• Certain social or cultural ideas about health and beauty
• Having a negative self-image
• Having an anxiety disorder as a child

Anorexia usually begins during the teen years or young adulthood. It is more common in females, but may also be seen in males. The disorder is seen mainly in white women who are high academic achievers and who have a goal-oriented family or personality.