[Suicidal behaviour in a clinical population of 12- to 17-year-old patients with eating disorders].

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of suicidal behavior and comorbidity among patients 12-17 years of age with eating disorders. Previous studies showed an increased rate of suicidal behavior in young people with eating disorders.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Data were collected as part of a European study concerning eating disorders. 37 patients (12-17 years, mean age 15 years) from the Center for Eating Disorders, Odense University Hospital, participated in the study. The frequency of suicidal behavior was tested individually by BAB-T interview (''Grading of Anorexia and Bulimia, Teen-ager''), which is a semi-structured interview with the patient, and by YSR (''Youth Self Report'') a questionnaire filled in by the patient herself.

RESULTS

Suicidal behavior was shown by 40% of the patients, and 29% had self-injurious behavior. There was a tendency for suicidal behavior and comorbidity to be more prominent in the youngest patients.

CONCLUSION

The risk of suicidal behavior is greater in patients with eating disorders than in the background population. In the youngest patients there is an increased tendency to suicidal behavior and comorbidity, but this requires further documentation. The clinician must be aware of self-injurious behavior in patients with eating disorders, including those between 12 and 17 years of age.