Eating disorders misunderstood

An expert has claimed that doctors are failing to spot eating disorders or follow guidance on how they should be treated.The UK has just over a million people with illnesses like anorexia and bulimia, although experts predict the true figure is far higher.Sufferers access NHS treatment through their GP, but many find it difficult to take the first step.Susan Ringwood, chief executive of the Eating Disorders Association, renamed [ beat http://www.b-eat.co.uk/Home ], said young people in particular could feel isolated.She said today's "celebrity-driven culture" mean eating disorders are often misunderstood and sensationalised.But, she argued, even when people went to their GP, they could be offered inadequate treatment or have their disorder missed altogether."People with an eating disorder do actually visit their GP as often as anyone else," she said."But the least likely thing for them to say is 'Doctor, I think I might have an eating disorder'."They are in the doctor's surgery, but they are not going to say it."Doctors therefore need to think of it and ask questions that lead them to work out if there's a need for further investigation."Research among GPs last year revealed that only about 5 per cent were consulting guidance set out by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), Ms Ringwood said.The guidelines include details on diagnosing a disorder and the treatments that should be offered - such as counselling or referral to a specialist centre.© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.

ITN | February 5, 2007

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