Which demographic is at the highest risk for developing anorexia nervosa?

The demographic most commonly associated with a higher risk for developing anorexia nervosa is young adult females, particularly those who are single, engaged in competitive settings, and may be part of the LGBTQ+ community. This population often faces unique societal pressures regarding body image and self-identity, which can contribute to the development of eating disorders.

In particular, young men who identify as homosexual may also be at increased risk due to pressures to conform to certain aesthetic ideals prevalent in the community and society at large. The age of 20 represents a time when individuals may feel significant pressure regarding their physical appearance, which can be particularly acute in high-stakes social environments.

When considering the other demographics, while college-aged athletes, including swimmers, can experience body image issues that lead to disordered eating, the pressures and expectations can be particularly intense for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. Similarly, high school athletes may also face pressures, but younger individuals in high school may not yet be as exposed to the intense competitive standards seen in college. The married, middle-aged female demographic tends to have different psychological and social stressors and may experience eating disorders in different contexts than those significant in younger populations.

Thus, a single, 20-year-old, homosexual male stands