Issue 7 Global Trailblazers for Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy and Advocacy
Editor in Chief Message
Pakistan has been ranked 9th among 188 countries facing obesity challenge around the globe. One quarter of the Pakistani population has been classified as overweight/obese. Females are found more prone for the risk of developing eating disorders as compared to the males in Pakistan. Almost 1 % of the total budget is spent on health in Pakistan. Focus on addressing the mental health is seldom seen as the topmost priority of the government. Lack of screening and treatment services, low number of experts, less public awareness regarding different types of eating disorders are few of the major challenges currently faced by Pakistan. Health related quality of life is a neglected area for research in the country. Moreover, eating disorders have been misunderstood, under reported and misdiagnosed in Pakistan. It is rarely considered as a mental illness. Weight and body appearance are seen as social taboos in the country. There is lack of specialized services for management of eating disorders with inadequate experts. Limited research data is available on the issue of eating disorders and only seventeen studies have been conducted in Pakistan till date to the best of my knowledge.
This issue highlights the importance of Global Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action. The issue includes interview of Ms. Aqdas Arshad, a young emerging researcher producing evidence-based data and intervention model in the field of eating disorders for developing countries. The review of global as well as national eating disorders collation for research policy and action for eating disorders have been included in this issue. Articles on research conducted on eating disorders and use of digital technology for recovery and treatment of these disorders are also part of the issue. Moreover, real stories highlighting the factors posing threats to eating disorders have also been included.