Results from a study published in Brain and Behavior suggest that traumatic events may contribute to the development of eating disorders among Palestinians. Also, certain sociodemographic factors—such as educational level, gender, region, and age—were linked to a greater likelihood of experiencing eating disorders.

In the study of 580 adults—including 320 males and 260 females who were recruited online—individuals who reported living through traumatic events were more likely to experience restraint eating, eating concerns, weight concerns, shape concerns, and eating disorders overall.

Eating disorders were more common in women versus men, younger versus older adults, individuals with lower educational levels versus those with higher educational qualifications, and residents of Palestinian refugee camps versus those living in cities and villages.

“Mental health interventions might help reduce eating disorders and address mental health challenges in Palestinian society, which is marked by a high prevalence of traumatic events and ongoing political conflict,” said corresponding author Fayez Mahamid, Ph.D., of An-Najah National University.