Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects developmental maturation causing a delay in secondary sex characteristics associated with puberty. There is little data on the impact of SCD on body image, a well-established risk factor for eating disorders among young women. Body dissatisfaction combined with environmental stressors and negative affect may place some men and women with SCD at a higher risk problematic eating behaviors or body change strategies in an attempt to achieve a more idealized body type. The present exploratory study examined the potential associations between SCD, body image, and eating disorders, and provided preliminary data to guide the directions of future investigations.
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We would like the thank Linda Weaver and the team in hematology for their efforts and support in completing the current research project.
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Reddy, S.D., Edwards, C.L., Wood, M. et al. Body Image in a Sample of Adult African American Males and Females with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). J Afr Am St 15, 115–119 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-009-9114-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-009-9114-5