Rethinking Anorexia Diagnosis: A Call for Decentering Weight

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders has proposed a significant shift in the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN). Researchers at the University of Victoria, Canada, argue that the current weight-based focus in diagnosing these eating disorders may unintentionally perpetuate weight stigma, particularly for individuals with AAN. The study suggests re-examining the diagnosis of AN and AAN as one disorder that occurs across the weight spectrum, with presentation and severity specifiers that remove a focus on body mass index (BMI) and enable more equitable access to care.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study emphasizes the need to de-center weight in the diagnosis of AN and AAN, which may help reduce weight stigma and improve treatment access for individuals with AAN.
  • Researchers propose considering AN and AAN as one disorder, with presentation and severity specifiers that account for the weight spectrum, rather than the current focus on BMI.
  • The study highlights the potential benefits of a weight-inclusive approach, including improved treatment outcomes and reduced stigma.
  • The researchers suggest that the diagnostic manual should be revised to reflect this new understanding of AN and AAN, which would require further examination and scholarly discussion.
  • The study authors, Sage DaSilva, Sarah Nutter, and Jessica F. Saunders, highlight the importance of considering the weight stigma experienced by individuals with AAN throughout the diagnostic and treatment processes.

Statistics:

  • The study reports that individuals with AAN experience significant weight stigma during the diagnostic and treatment processes.
  • The researchers estimate that a weight-inclusive approach to diagnosing AN and AAN could lead to improved treatment outcomes and reduced stigma for individuals with AAN.
  • According to the study, the current focus on BMI in diagnosing AN and AAN may unintentionally perpetuate weight stigma, which affects a significant portion of individuals with AAN.

Sources:

  • A Weight-Inclusive Approach to Restrictive Eating Disorders: De-Centering Weight. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 2025.
  • International Journal of Eating Disorders: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1098-108X
  • NewsRx. Researchers from University of Victoria Report Findings in Anorexia (A Weight-Inclusive Approach to Restrictive Eating Disorders: De-Centering Weight). Mental Health Weekly Digest. November 3, 2025; p 723.