Bulimia and Binge Eating – Facts and Figures in Australia

How many people struggle with bulimia and binge eating in Australia?

Of the 1.1 million people in Australia with an eating disorder, 12% of these have bulimia, this equates to approximately 132 000 people and 47% have Binge Eating Disorder, this equates to approximately 517 000 people.

These figures are from Australia’s leading Eating Disorder Support Space, The Butterfly Foundation says: “Less than one in three people (30%) seek professional help.  Stigma and shame are the most frequently identified barriers for accessing treatment.”

Binge Eating

“Binge eating involves two key features: 

1 Eating a very large amount of food within a relatively short period of time (eg. within two hours)

2 Feeling a sense of lack of control over eating (eg. feeling unable to stop yourself from eating)

Bulimia

“A person with bulimia will experience a lack of control and will eat a large amount of food within a relatively short period of time.  The person will often feel guilt and shame during or after the episode and will engage in compensatory behaviours with the intention to prevent weight gain.

A person with bulimia can become stuck in a cycle of eating in an out-of-control manner, followed by attempts to compensate for this, which can lead to feelings of shame, guilt and disgust.

Compensatory behaviours include: vomiting, misusing laxatives or diuretics, fasting, excessive exercise and the use of any drugs inappropriately for weight control, whether they are illicit, prescription and/or ‘over the counter’”

Economic Impact

In 2023, the total social and economic cost of eating disorders in Australia was estimated at $66.9 Billion.  This includes health systems costs, productivity costs and wellbeing costs.

Eating Disorders are complex yet treatable illnesses.  Person-centred care, tailored to suit the person’s illness, situation and needs, is the most effective way to treat someone with an eating disorder.

Butterfly Foundation (2024) The reality of eating disorders in Australia, Sydney: Butterfly Foundation

www.butterfly.org.au