Eating Disorders in the Time of the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Perspective

Background: Current epidemiological conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate the risk of new onset, recurrence and relapse of eating disorders. The aim of this perspective is to better analyse the phenomenon. Results: Some data suggest that new onset and recurrence/relapse of eating disorders are increasing due to the ongoing pandemic. Government restrictions, self-confinement, social isolation, restriction to healthcare facilities access, delayed access to diagnosis and cure, fear of contagion, distress and difficulties related to telemedicine approach are believed to contribute to this burden. Immune system dysfunction usually observed in undernourishment (e.g., anorexia nervosa) could play a role in delaying the diagnosis of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, and predisposing to possible bacterial superinfection. Conversely, patients with binge eating, obesity or metabolic syndrome are susceptible to high-grade systemic inflammation and poor prognosis once the infection has occurred. Discussion: Despite some evidence, more detailed data combining research in the field of eating disorders and COVID-19 are required. Many data show that telemedicine has some beneficial aspects, but its impact on long-term mental health is still poorly understood. Short- and long-term consequences of COVID-19 in patients with eating disorders are unknown, but it is likely that they will become more apparent over time. Conclusion: Working on emotion regulating strategies in a post-pandemic world, when people have inadequate control over the background of negative emotions, could be a strategy for treatment in the future. Long-term studies with a larger sample size are essential to assess long-term consequences of blockade on patients and their healthcare providers and identify useful strategies to improve clinical management.