A cross-sectional evaluation of binge-eating behavior and its correlation with anxiety disorders among adolescents in Northern Saudi Arabia: Implications for future generations

Introduction Binge-eating behavior and anxiety disorders pose a significant public health issue worldwide, as it has severe implications for both the physical and mental health of the adolescent population. The present study evaluated the prevalence of binge-eating behavior, anxiety disorders, and associated factors among the northern Saudi adolescent population. Objectives Assessed the correlation between binge eating and anxiety. Methods The present population-based cross-sectional study was carried out among adolescents in the Aljouf region of Saudi Arabia from June 2023 to December 2023. A total of 384 eligible participants were selected using the convenience sampling method. The present study used a pretested Arabic version of the binge eating scale (BES) and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) to assess the binge-eating behavior and anxiety disorders among the target population. The Spearman correlation test determined the strength and direction of the correlation between BES and HAM-A scores. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis was applied to find the associated factors for binge-eating behavior among the study participants. Results Of the 384 participants, moderate and severe binge-eating behaviors were found among 11.2% and 8.3% of the respondents, respectively. Regarding the severity of anxiety as assessed by the HAM-A scale, mild, moderate, and severe anxiety were shown among 12.8%, 9.6%, and 7.5% of the participants, respectively. Also, the study found a positive correlation between binge eating and anxiety scores, with a correlation coefficient of 0.26 and a p-value of 0.001. Furthermore, being female (p = 0.001), moderate (p = 0.004), and severe anxiety (P = 0.001) were significantly associated with binge-eating behavior. Conclusions The present research findings advocate for the implementation of targeted interventions and support services aimed at decreasing binge-eating behavior and anxiety, thereby promoting the overall well-being of adolescents and building stronger future generations. Moreover, it is recommended that optional courses about binge eating be incorporated into the curricula of schools and universities. Disclosure of Interest None Declared