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Gender differences in binge eating and behavioral correlates among college students

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Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate gender differences in binge eating and associated behavioral correlates in college students. METHODS: A webbased survey was conducted with 2073 students (mean age 19.8 yr; range 18–23 yr). Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the factors associated with binge eating. RESULTS: Twenty-nine percent of students reported recent bingeing. Factors associated with binge eating included being female, having a higher body mass index, current tobacco use, and exercising to lose weight. Women were more likely to binge eat (73.8%; χ2 =32.3; p≦0.001), report loss of control (45%; χ2=16.3; p≦0.001), self induced vomiting (20.7%; χ2=15.9; p≦0.001), and laxative use (6.7%; χ2=8.93; p≦0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Results generated from this study suggest that gender-disparate behaviors are potential targets for future tailored interventions.

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Correspondence to S. Kelly-Weeder PhD, FNP-BC.

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Kelly-Weeder, S., Jennings, K.M. & Wolfe, B.E. Gender differences in binge eating and behavioral correlates among college students. Eat Weight Disord 17, e200–e202 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03325348

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03325348

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