Diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus triples the odds of screening positive for eating disorders: A case-control study

Abstract

BACKGROUND

A diagnosis of a chronic disease has been shown to predispose patients to the development of feeding and eating disorders (FEDs).

AIM

To screen children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) for FEDs and compare them to their counterparts with short stature.

METHODS

A total of 110 children and adolescents (55 with T1DM and 55 with short stature) were enrolled in the study. The SCOFF questionnaire was used to screen for possible FEDs, while anthropometric and dietary data were also collected.

RESULTS

Approximately 60% of the children with T1DM screened positive for FEDs compared to 30.9% of the children with short stature. Having a T1DM tripled the chances of screening positive for FEDs and halved the annual growth rate of children with T1DM. No differences were noted in the dietary intake between groups.

CONCLUSION

The results necessitate the education of pediatric endocrinologists and diabetologists on proper screening and identification of children at risk for developing FEDs. A prompt diagnosis might help children catch up growth and attain their genetically predisposed height.

Keywords: Disordered eating; Eating disorders; Growth hormone deficiency; Short stature; Growth; Insulin

Core Tip: We showed that children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) have a heightened risk for feeding and eating disorders (FEDs) and should be screened when red flags are apparent. A dual FEDs and T1DM diagnosis can halt the linear growth of children, making it difficult for them to reach their genetic potential according to parental height. In parallel, children with short stature also exhibit a high risk for FEDs. Collectively, the results indicate that pediatricians, pediatric endocrinologists and diabetologists should be educated on triage for FEDs, using valid tools to support a prompt identification and management.