Life events and anorexia nervosa: Differences between early and late onset cases

The case records of 12 patients with late onset anorexia nervosa (onset after age 25) were examined and compared with two control groups. Life events as rated according to the Bedford Life Events Schedule were more common prior to the onset of the anorexia in the late onset group than in either control group. The older patients were also more likely to experience a concurrent depressive illness. The significance of these findings is discussed.