Journal of Adolescent Health
Volume 36, Issue 3 , Pages 214-220, March 2005

Prevalence of eating disorders in Latina adolescents: Associations with substance use and other correlates

  • Teresa Granillo, B.A.

      Affiliations

    • Psychology Department, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • Mexican American Studies and Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • ,
  • Gina Jones-Rodriguez, M.P.H.

      Affiliations

    • Mexican American Studies and Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • ,
  • Scott C. Carvajal, Ph.D., M.P.H.

      Affiliations

    • Psychology Department, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • Mexican American Studies and Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • Department of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress correspondence to: Dr. Scott C. Carvajal, Assistant Professor of Mexican American Studies, Psychology and Public Health, University of Arizona, Cesar Chavez Bldg, P.O. Box 210023, Tucson, AZ 85721-0023

Received 25 September 2003; received in revised form 31 January 2004

Abstract 

Purpose

To estimate the occurrence and correlates of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa-related symptoms in a Latina sample of U.S. adolescents.

Method

Approximately 1866 Latinas ranging in age from 11–20 years old are included in this study. These adolescents are a sub-sample from the National Longitudinal Survey on Adolescent Health. Along with self-reports of eating disorder-related variables, we measured related biological, contextual, behavioral, and psychosocial correlates, including use of various substances.

Conclusion

Chi-square analysis showed the prevalence in all Latina sub-groups was relatively consistent with the U.S. trends. Latinas of higher socioeconomic status were more at risk for eating disorders. Body dissatisfaction, negative affectivity, substance use, and low self-esteem were all positively correlated with eating disorder symptoms. These results suggest screening and treatment services are needed across groups of Latina adolescents.

Keywords:  Eating disorders , Adolescents , Latinas , Bulimia , Substance use

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PII: S1054-139X(04)00417-3

doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2004.01.015

Journal of Adolescent Health
Volume 36, Issue 3 , Pages 214-220, March 2005

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