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Despite advances made in research on eating disorders, there are still a lot of unanswered questions affecting patients, their families and society at large.

Eating disorder statistics exhibit a concerning upward trajectory, as evidenced by a 60% increase in psychiatric hospital admissions in Denmark alone from 2010 to 2018. The surge in reported cases, coupled with a recent 17% increase in inquiries to the Eating Disorders and Self-Harm Association in 2023, emphasizes the need for deeper exploration and intervention.

Despite advances, critical questions remain unanswered. The onset of eating disorders, typically during crucial developmental years, poses challenges in the early identification of at-risk patients. The treatment efficacy also remains a question, with only about half of patients showing improvement post-treatment.

The quest for holistic solutions

The Center for Eating and feeding Disorders Research (CEDaR) has adopted a combined approach, using diverse perspectives to understand the disorder's complexities. From looking into Danish health registries to analyzing environmental and genetic risk factors, as well as exploring the gut microbiome's role through stool samples, the center employs a comprehensive methodology.

Advanced imaging techniques provide insights into the neurological aspects of eating disorders. By studying brain structure and function, the researchers at CEDaR aim to identify anomalies associated with conditions such as anorexia nervosa, offering prospects for targeted interventions and monitoring treatment outcomes.

Aside from understanding the reasons for developing eating disorders, CEDaR's initiatives also involve looking for practical solutions. Ongoing studies aim to delineate effective treatments, particularly for binge-eating disorders, while also exploring avenues for prevention through risk prediction. As CEDaR continues its studies, the prospect of enhanced treatment efficacy and preventive strategies gives hope to affected people.