Global eating disorders rise 71% since 1990, GLP-1 drugs may worsen crisis

Surge in eating disorders and contributing factors

The global incidence of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa increased by 71% between 1990 and 2023, according to a report published by researchers from the University of Melbourne and cited by MIT Technology Review. By 2023, an estimated 18.1 million people were living with these disorders, with projections suggesting this number could reach 21.8 million by 2050 if trends continue. The report estimates that eating disorders cost the world approximately 3.83 million years of healthy life in 2023.

Clinical psychologists, including Cheri Levinson of the University of Louisville and Cynthia Bulik of the University of North Carolina, report observing more severe symptoms and earlier onset of eating disorders than at any other point in their careers. Levinson noted that many of her patients are misusing GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which can trigger restrictive eating behaviors and exacerbate disorders.

Role of social media and the pandemic

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, are amplifying harmful content related to eating disorders. According to the report, TikTok’s algorithms delivered 4,343% more 'toxic eating disorder videos' to users who already showed signs of these conditions compared to those who did not. This amplification is contributing to the normalization and spread of dangerous behaviors.

The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the rise in eating disorders. In the US, hospitalizations for these conditions doubled between 2018 and 2020, a trend linked to isolation, disrupted routines, and increased screen time during lockdowns.

GLP-1 drugs and eating disorder risks

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which have gained popularity for their effectiveness in managing obesity, are increasingly being misused by individuals with eating disorders. A Gallup survey cited in the report found that 15% of Americans have used these drugs, with misuse reported among children as young as 11, who are purchasing versions of the drugs through platforms like TikTok.

Clinical guidelines now recommend screening for eating disorders before prescribing GLP-1 medications. Experts warn that these drugs can reinforce restrictive eating behaviors, which may trigger or worsen disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.

Broader implications of the data

This surge in eating disorders intersects with earlier reporting on the unintended consequences of GLP-1 drug adoption. For instance, the improper disposal of needles used for these medications has led to safety concerns for sanitation workers, as highlighted in a previous LazyFounder story. The rise in injuries among workers underscores the broader societal impact of the rapid adoption of these drugs, beyond their clinical use.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

The data presents a dual challenge for public health and the tech industry. For healthcare founders and operators, the rise in eating disorders—and their potential link to GLP-1 drugs—signals a need for better screening tools, patient education, and harm-reduction strategies. The trend also underscores the urgency for digital platforms to address algorithmic amplification of harmful content, which is directly contributing to the crisis.

For startups in the mental health space, this report may indicate growing demand for interventions that target eating disorders, particularly those designed to counteract social media’s influence. The misuse of GLP-1 drugs among children adds another layer of complexity, suggesting opportunities for solutions that focus on safeguarding vulnerable populations.

The broader implications extend to pharmaceutical companies and regulators, who may face pressure to implement stricter controls on the prescription and monitoring of GLP-1 drugs, especially for patients with a history of eating disorders.

Key takeaways

• The rise in eating disorders signals a growing public health challenge, with implications for healthcare systems and pharmaceutical regulation.
• Founders in the mental health and digital wellness spaces may see increased demand for solutions addressing social media harm and eating disorder prevention.
• The misuse of GLP-1 drugs among vulnerable populations, including children, highlights the need for stricter safeguards in prescribing and monitoring.
• The link between social media algorithms and harmful content underscores the urgency for platforms to address algorithmic amplification of toxic material.

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