Anorexia, Bulimia and other eating disorders

This course is divided into seven comprehensive units:

Unit 1: Diagnostic Criteria and Statistics
This unit introduces the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. It provides insights into the prevalence of these disorders and the severe medical and psychological complications they can cause​.

Unit 2: DSM Diagnostic Criteria
Participants will learn the specific diagnostic criteria for various eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, based on the DSM-5 guidelines. Severity indicators such as BMI and binge frequency are also discussed​.

Unit 3: Prevention
This unit covers the different levels of prevention, including universal, selective, and targeted prevention, with a focus on at-risk groups such as adolescents, athletes, and individuals with diabetes or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Unit 4: Screening and Identification
Participants will be introduced to validated screening tools, such as the SCOFF questionnaire, to detect early signs of eating disorders. This unit also highlights behavioural, psychological, and physical signs that can aid in early identification​.

Unit 5: Initial Assessment
This unit outlines the steps involved in the initial assessment of patients with suspected eating disorders. It discusses the importance of identifying emergency medical conditions, conducting a full medical history, and engaging the patient in their treatment process​.

Unit 6: Treatment Guidelines
The course provides a detailed guide to the treatment goals and strategies for managing eating disorders, including weight normalisation, psychological therapy, and the role of pharmacotherapy for conditions like bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Unit 7: Eating Disorders in Men
This unit focuses on the prevalence, diagnosis, and management of eating disorders in men, including unique factors such as muscle dysmorphia. It also discusses the stigma men face and the importance of gender-specific approaches to treatment​.

This course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to effectively diagnose, assess, and treat patients with eating disorders, improving patient outcomes and providing comprehensive care.