Eating Disorders in Latin America

Eating disorders (EDs) and eating pathology are now well-recognized entities known to affect all racial and ethnic groups. Although limited, there is an increasing body of evidence that has developed over the last several years, which has allowed us to enhance our understanding of eating disorders (EDs) in Latin/Hispanic populations. Latinas are vulnerable to poor body image, eating disorders, and higher weights, particularly during their college years. The lifetime prevalence of anorexia nervosa is lower among Hispanic/Latinos than non-Hispanic Whites. The rates of bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder are comparable among Hispanic/Latinos and non-Hispanic Whites. Culture-specific variables within the social context such as immigration status and acculturation are important to consider in the development of EDs. In this chapter, we will describe the prevalence of ED in the Latin/Hispanic population, specific features of this population, and important cultural adaptations of evidence-based treatments when providing eating disorder treatment for Latino/Hispanic peoples. Frequent adaptations to treatment can include the involvement of family within treatment regardless of the age of the patient, acculturation-related issues, and managing family conflicts that arise because of the changes in eating patterns.