As per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition
text revision (DSM-5 TR), feeding and eating disorders “are characterized by a
persistent disturbance of eating or eating related behavior that results in altered
consumption or absorption of food and that significantly impairs physical health or
psychosocial functioning.” A meta-analysis published recently concluded that women
with PCOS had over three times the odds of being diagnosed with an ED (Eating
disorder). There is considerable overlap in symptoms of Binge Eating Behavior (BEB)
and PCOS like difficulty losing in weight, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and
hirsutism. Hormonal and menstrual irregularities and hyperandrogenism have been
linked to both PCOS and BEB. Insulin resistance, obesity, stress and serotonin have
overlapping etiology for both. Gut microbiomes and reward system of the brain are
implicated in the etiopathogenesis of PCOS and ED. High levels of body dissatisfaction
are seen in women with PCOS and coping with these psychosocial factors can lead to
disordered eating in women. There is an increased risk of developing PCOS at puberty
and in adolescence due to high levels of estrogen. Binge Eating Behavior (BEB) is a
common symptom of eating disorders including Bulimia Nervosa (BN), binge eating
disorder (BED), and binge/purge subtype of anorexia nervosa (AN-BP). Treatment of
Feeding and Eating Disorders (FEDs) remains challenging with evidence based
intervention still lacking for certain disorders (AN in adults). Relapse and treatment
non-responsiveness are high.
Keywords: Anorexia nervosa, Binge eating disorder, Eating disorders.
