The social epidemiology of binge-eating disorder and behaviors in early adolescents

Abstract Background Binge-eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder phenotype and is linked to several negative health outcomes. Yet, little is known about the social epidemiology of BED, particularly in early adolescence. The objective of this study was to examine the associations between sociodemographic characteristics and BED and binge-eating behaviors in a large, national cohort of 10–14-year-old adolescents in the United States (U.S.) Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of two-year follow-up data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (2018 − 2020) that included 10,197 early adolescents (10 − 14 years, mean 12 years) in the U.S. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between sociodemographic characteristics and BED and binge-eating behaviors, defined based on the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia. Results In this early adolescent sample (48.8% female, 54.0% White, 19.8% Latino/Hispanic, 16.1% Black, 5.4% Asian, 3.2% Native American, 1.5% Other), the prevalence of BED and binge-eating behaviors were 1.0% and 6.3%, respectively. Identifying as gay or bisexual (compared to heterosexual; adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.25, 95% CI 1.01–5.01) and having a household income of less than $75,000 (AOR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.21–3.46) were associated with greater odds of BED. Being male (AOR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.06–1.55), of Native American (AOR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.01–2.55) descent, having a household income less than $75,000 (AOR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.08–1.65), or identifying as gay or bisexual (AOR for ‘Yes’ Response: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.31–2.91 and AOR for ‘Maybe’ Response: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.19–2.76) were all associated with higher odds of binge-eating behaviors. Conclusion Several sociodemographic variables showed significant associations with binge-eating behaviors, which can inform targeted screening, prevention, and education campaigns for BED among early adolescents