Latent classes of alcohol and cannabis use among adults with binge-spectrum eating disorders: Associations with eating disorder symptom severity and personality features.

Abstract

Alcohol and cannabis use are prevalent among individuals with binge-spectrum eating disorders (B-ED) and vary in terms of frequency and associated problems. The current study aimed to identify latent classes of alcohol and cannabis use patterns among B-ED and examine associations between latent classes and demographic characteristics, eating disorder symptoms, and personality features. Participants (N=236) were treatment-seeking adults with B-ED who completed a clinical interview of eating pathology and self-report measures of alcohol and cannabis use in the past 3months, alcohol and cannabis-related problems, and personality features (i.e., impulsivity, affect lability). Latent class analysis identified three heterogeneous classes, labelled as (a) Low Alcohol, (b) Moderate Drinking and Problems with Occasional Cannabis Use, and (c) No Alcohol and Cannabis Use. Latent classes significantly differed in terms of substance use engagement and problems, demographic characteristics, dietary restraint, impulsive personality features, and affect lability. Study findings support heterogeneity in alcohol and cannabis use among B-ED and suggest patient characteristics and clinical severity associated with specific substance use presentations. Future research should replicate results using larger, diverse samples engaging in a broader range of alcohol and cannabis use symptoms.