The prevalence of feeding and eating disorders symptomology in medical students: an updated systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression

Abstract

PurposeMedical students have a higher risk of developing psychological issues, such as feeding and eating disorders (FEDs). In the past few years, a major increase was observed in the number of studies on the topic. The goal of this review was to estimate the prevalence risk of FEDs and its associated risk factors in medical students.MethodsNine electronic databases were used to conduct an electronic search from the inception of the databases until 15th September 2021. The DerSimonian–Laird technique was used to pool the estimates using random-effects meta-analysis. The prevalence of FEDs risk in medical students was the major outcome of interest. Data were analyzed globally, by country, by research measure and by culture. Sex, age, and body mass index were examined as potential confounders using meta-regression analysis.ResultsA random-effects meta-analysis evaluating the prevalence of FEDs in medical students (K = 35, N = 21,383) generated a pooled prevalence rate of 17.35% (95% CI 14.15–21.10%), heterogeneity [Q = 1528 (34), P = 0.001], τ2 = 0.51 (95% CI 0.36–1.05), τ = 0.71 (95% CI 0.59–1.02), I2 = 97.8%; H = 6.70 (95% CI 6.19–7.26). Age and sex were not significant predictors. Body mass index, culture and used research tool were significant confounders.ConclusionThe prevalence of FEDs symptoms in medical students was estimated to be 17.35%. Future prospective studies are urgently needed to construct prevention and treatment programs to provide better outcomes for students at risk of or suffering from FEDs.Level of evidenceLevel I, systematic review and meta-analysis.