Publications on cross-cultural aspects of eating disorders.
BACKGROUND
The prevalence of eating disorders in the non-Western world appears to be increasing and much research into the cross-cultural aspects of eating disorders is needed. This bibliometric study analyses the profile of cross-cultural studies into eating disorders published from 1970 through to 2011.


RESULTS
1,417 articles were indexed by Medline and PsychInfo from 1970 to 2011. There has been an exponential increase in publications in this field. Four articles were published in 1970-74 and this increased to 427 in 2004-9. Comparative and empirical studies were the most common types of publications. Of all the ethnic groups studied, Africans and African Americans were subject of the most publications. Pacific Islanders and South Europeans had the fewest publications.


CONCLUSIONS
It is heartening that there has been a large increase in published studies about eating disorders across cultures. This suggests greater awareness and interest in the field. However, the results from one particular ethnic group cannot always be applied directly to another. Some ethnic and cultural groups have been poorly studied and warrant more research attention. As more patients from such backgrounds present for treatment, more research is needed to provide culturally appropriate and acceptable care.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Coral Tree Family Service, PO Box 142, North Ryde, NSW 1670, Australia.
Nerissa Li-Wey
NL
Soh
Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney, and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Coral Tree Family Service, PO Box 142, North Ryde, NSW 1670, Australia.
Garry
G
Walter
African; Asian; Bibliometric; Cross-cultural; Eating disorders; Hispanic; Middle-Eastern; Pacific Islander; South European