Prevention and Early Intervention in Eating Disorders: An Evidence and Gap Map

This evidence and gap map identifies available and missing systematic reviews in preventing and early intervention of eating disorders. This will contribute to evidence-based public health measures.

Puberty is a critical period of vulnerability for the onset of eating disorders. The prevalence of eating disorders has increased significantly over the last decade. A Norwegian study from 2021 found that around 20% of adolescents exhibited disordered eating behaviors, and 9% met the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder. These findings underscore the critical need to invest in prevention and early detection strategies for eating disorders. Effective prevention requires a comprehensive understanding of the existing evidence. Therefore, we are conducting an evidence and gap map of systematic reviews on the prevention and early intervention of eating disorders, disordered eating, and body dissatisfaction.

An evidence and gap map is a systematic evidence synthesis product that displays the available evidence relevant to a broader research question without presenting results from individual reviews. To identify relevant reviews, we conducted a systematic literature search in 8 databases. Two researchers independently screen references in two stages: first by title and abstract, and then by full-text review, based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included reviews will be categorized using the EPPI-Reviewer software according to a predefined framework. For instance, we will distinguish between reviews on universal, selective, and indicated prevention strategies. We will assess the methodological quality of the included systematic reviews using AMSTAR-2, enabling us to identify high-quality systematic reviews.

We expect to identify a range of systematic reviews covering various prevention measures and early interventions for eating disorders. These reviews will offer insights into the most effective strategies for reducing the incidence of eating disorders, disordered eating, and body dissatisfaction across different age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Additionally, we aim to highlight gaps in the existing research that warrant further investigation.

Our findings will strengthen the evidence base for the prevention and early intervention of eating disorders. It will make high-quality systematic reviews more accessible to stakeholders, such as Norwegian municipalities, who are interested in finding evidence for measures they consider implementing. This will help shape future strategies for prevention and health promotion, ultimately improving the health and well-being of the whole population.