Prevalence of symptoms of anorexia nervosa and dissatisfaction with body image among female adolescents in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina State, Brazil

The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of symptoms of anorexia nervosa ( EAT+) and dissatisfaction with body image among female adolescents in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina State, Brazil. The proportional sample ( 1,148 adolescents) was stratified according to position of schools in the socio-geographic regions and public/private school classification, and was subsequently distributed according to primary and secondary schools. EAT+ was identified through the Eating Attitudes Test and evaluation of body image through the Body Shape Questionnaire. Prevalence rates for EAT+ and dissatisfaction with body image were 15.6% and 18.8%, respectively. EAT+ was associated with age (10-13y) ( OR = 1.542; p = 0.046); overweight/obesity ( OR = 2.075; p < 0.001); dissatisfaction with body image ( OR = 14.392; p < 0.001); and public schools ( OR = 1.423; p = 0.041). Multiple logistic regression showed dissatisfaction with body image as the strongest independent risk factor for symptoms of anorexia nervosa ( OR = 16.7; p < 0.001). Adolescents in Florianopolis show EAT+ rates similar to those observed in other regions of Brazil.