Depressive Symptoms and Substance Use among Adolescent Binge Eaters and Purgers: A Defined Population Study.

Abstract: We surveyed 646 tenth grade females in Northern California to assess the prevalence of binge eating and purging behaviors. Of these, 10.3 per ¢ met study criteria for bulimia and an additional 10.4 per ¢ reported purging behaviors for weight control. Bulimics and purgers were heavier, had greater triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses, and reported higher rates of drunkenness, marijuana use, cigarette use. and greater levels of depressive symptomatology. (Am J Public Health 1987: 77:1539-1541.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]