Prevalence of food addiction determined by the Yale Food Addiction Scale and associated factors: A systematic review with meta-analysis

Objective To determine, through a systematic review with meta-analysis, the prevalence of food addiction (FA) using the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) and its derivatives exploring possible factors associated with the prevalence of FA in several contexts. Methods The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, LILACS, PsycArticles, CENTRAL, , and . Studies that assessed FA using YFAS were included. Two independent reviewers assessed the eligibility of each report. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to calculate the weighted prevalence of FA. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity. Results Of the 6425 abstracts reviewed, 272 studies were included. The weighted mean prevalence of FA diagnosis was 20% (95% CI: 18%; 21%). The prevalence of FA was higher in individuals with clinical diagnosis of binge eating (55%; 95% CI 34%; 75%). The prevalence in clinical samples was higher compared to non-clinical samples. Two studies included children only and no studies included only elderly people. Conclusions Food addiction is a topic in which there has been a significant growth in studies. The highest prevalence was found in the group of participants with eating disorders and weight disorders. More studies with children and the elderly are needed.