Abstract
Background: Eating disorders (ED) are a common health problem amongst adolescents. The high incidence may reflect ignorance, but it may also be influenced by environmental factors. This study aimed to investigate the potential students at risk of ED amongst high school students in Makkah, and to evaluate the relationship between risk of ED and smoking or perceived stress. Method: 471 students (72 males and 399 females) from private and public secondary schools were enrolled in the study. Demographic data and Perceived Stress Scale questionnaires were used to determine the potential prevalence of students with the risk of ED. Results: Results classified 46% students into the group at risk for anorexia or bulimia nervosa. 29% students were identified as having possible issues with food or body image. A significant relationship was found between stress levels and the risk for ED (p<0.05). Additionally, there was a significant relationship between smoking and the likely risk of ED. Girls exhibited a higher prevalence of stress compared to male subjects (p<0.05). Significant relationships were identified between obesity and risk of ED in both genders (p<0.05), also between gender and weight (p<0.05). Conclusion: Students in Makkah are at risk of ED. Data suggesting that high stress levels and smoking have a significant influence on ED development.