| Abstract [eng] |
Aim. Collect and analyse the literature about risk factors of children‘s and adolescents eating disorders and submit summaries about possible early interventions. Methods. The literature search was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases until March 31, 2023. The keywords for the search were,, childhood‘‘, ,,adolescent‘‘, ,,eating disorders‘‘, ,, risk factors‘‘, ,,suicide‘‘, ,,maltreatment‘‘. Selected those scientific articles in which participants were under 19 years old and had eating disorder or characteristic symptoms. Articles were selected with full text available in English. 23 scientific articles were selected and analysed. Results. Eating disorders are complex diseases characterized by abnormal eating behaviour. Eating disorders are influenced by genetic, biological, psychological, social and environmental factors. The influence of social networks and television, relationships with family and peers are often mentioned in the literature as the main risk factors. Neglect experienced in childhood, including emotional, physical and sexual abuse is also extremely important. Self- harm or suicide attempts can occur as initial, warning risk factor. As well as the use of alcohol and drugs, which can also provoke the beginning of eating disorder. There is now scientific evidence that boys also suffer from eating disorders, more often than previously thought. They are more characterized by such risk factors as alcohol and drug use, impulsivity and aggressiveness, the tendency to strive for a muscular body. Conclusions. Eating disorders in children and adolescents are determined by a complex of risk factors. Early detection of those risk factors or the first symptoms is very crucial because it may prevent an eating disorder or at least its severe consequences. Effective preventive methods are physical activity, education of young people at school about a healthy lifestyle, attitude towards their body. |
