FIGIJ and NASPAG Advocacy Statement: Recognize Eating Disorders Early and Intervene!

Eating disorders (EDs) are life-threatening biopsychosocial illnesses that impact a growing number of children, adolescents and young adults globally. Clinicians who address the reproductive health of adolescents and young adults are uniquely positioned to recognize EDs, with oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea often heralding the development or progression of disordered eating. Early detection and prompt referral to multidisciplinary care where available can lead to improved outcomes. FIGIJ, NASPAG and ACOG recognize menses as a key vital sign; an additional vital sign can include use of the growth chart to track changes that might indicate disordered eating. When weight or height cross 2 or more major percentiles, further assessment for disordered eating or other etiology is indicated.