Course and Prognosis of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder. It begins in early adulthood and occurs about three times more frequently in women than in men. BED significantly impairs quality of life. The prevalence of obesity is over 40%. Over 70% have at least one additional mental illness. The mortality rate is increased. BED often has a long-lasting course, and less than 50% of those affected seek treatment. 50% achieve abstinence from binge eating through psychotherapy. In the long-term course, a remission rate of about two-thirds is observed. The prognosis is more favorable, the milder the severity of BED and the lower the general psychopathology. The strongest therapy successes are achieved by patients who respond quickly to therapy. However, many affected individuals change to a different diagnostic category, suffer relapses, or the clinical picture becomes chronic. Weight improvement is minimal. Therefore, treatment must be further developed.