Liu and colleagues conducted a study to determine the risk factors for anorexia in children and the factors to reduce the prevalence of anorexia in children.

They made use of a questionnaire survey and a case-control study to obtain the general information of 150 children with anorexia (case group). Another 150 normal children formed the control group. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic stepwise regression analysis were conducted to identify the risk factors for anorexia.

Univariate analysis exhibited significant differences between the case and control groups in the following:

• age in months when supplementary food was added,
• feeding pattern,
• whether they liked meat, vegetables and salty food,
• whether they frequently consumed snacks and beverages,
• whether they liked to play while eating, and
• whether parents asked them to eat food on time.

According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, late introduction of supplementary food, high frequency of taking snacks and/or drinks, and eating while playing (OR=6.654) were major risk factors for anorexia in children. Liking of meat and vegetables and eating on time required by parents were found to protect against anorexia in children.

To conclude, timely addition of supplementary food, a proper diet, and development of proper eating and living habits in children can reduce the incidence of anorexia in children.

Source: Liu WX, Lang JF, Zhang QF. Risk factors for anorexia in children. Zhongguo Dang Dai Er Ke Za Zhi. 2016 Nov;18(11):1119-1122.