Eating Disorder Debate
The Iowa College of Medicine has released a study showing that in some cases, involuntarily admitting to a hospital someone who suffers from anorexia or bulimia may help that person in the long run. Some patients admit themselves because they know they need help in overcoming their disease, but some may have to be forced into a hospital program. These involuntary patients often weigh even less than those patients seeking treatment voluntarily. However, once they're in the program--and if they admit to the need for help--these involuntary patients appear to improve at the same rate as voluntary patients. There has been a long debate in the medical community over whether or not it's appropriate to intervene in these diseases by using forced hospitalization. This study concludes that some people can be effectively treated under these circumstances. - Lynda Cleary
( Published: 16-Jan-2001 | # 10242 )