Sophie Lalonde-Bester
Supervisor: Donna Vine
Project: How common are eating disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome?
"The causes behind eating disorder (ED) development in PCOS are not yet fully understood, but in my review of the literature, I found that there are many psychological and body image factors that increase the risk for developing an ED in PCOS."
Understanding eating disorders and disordered eating patterns in those with and without polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder affecting females. Eating disorders are mental illnesses that may impact the development of PCOS and its health outcomes. These include obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Eating disorders have been seen at higher rates in PCOS, but there remain limited studies on the prevalence of specific types of eating disorders in this population. A literature review from our lab has shown that folks with PCOS have a high risk of developing eating disorders, especially binge eating disorder and bulimia. If those with PCOS are at higher risk of developing eating disorders, catching these people early and treating them could prevent significant negative impacts on health. Healthcare providers need more information on the types of eating disorders and how to recognize them. This is important because eating disorders can impact diet and lifestyle recommendations for the management of PCOS.
This research aims to determine the prevalence of eating disorders in those with and without PCOS in Alberta. A secondary aim is to learn about participants' experiences with disordered eating and body weight stigma in the health-care system. Participants with and without PCOS will complete an eating disorder screening survey. The survey will be based on previously validated tools. Using the data collected from the survey, we will estimate the prevalence of eating disorders in those with and without PCOS. We will assess the concerns of those with PCOS related to disordered eating to learn more about their health care.
Sophie Lalonde-Bester was supervised by Donna Vine and her summer studentship was funded by the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation. She is enrolled in the Doctor of Medicine program.
