Epidemiology of anorexia nervosa in Monroe County, New York: 1960-1976

The Monroe County Psychiatric Case Register and hospital records were used to investigate the incidence of anorexia nervosa in Monroe County, New York, during the periods 1960-1969 and 1970-1976 to determine whether the number of newly diagnosed cases has increased over time. The results support the general clinical impression of a recent increase in the incidence of anorexia nervosa. This pattern of overall change was accounted for by the sharp increase in the number of females with the disorder, particularly those aged 15-24. The data also suggest that the disorder occurs more often in the higher socioeconomic levels.