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The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents eating disorders: A systematic review

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  • Luginaah, Nasong A.
  • Dhillon, Satveer
  • Batung, Evans S.
  • Ziegler, Bianca R.
  • Luginaah, Isaac

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic an increased prevalence of eating disorders was seen globally. For vulnerable groups, in particular children and adolescents, public health measures including lockdowns, limited in-person healthcare access, increased focus on handwashing and sanitization, and the increased fear related to the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound negative impact on this population. Despite the increased vulnerability of these children and adolescents to eating disorders during the pandemic and the trend observed, there has been limited research in this area. Hence, this systematic review aims to identify the impact of COVID-19 on eating disorders among children and adolescents globally.

Suggested Citation

  • Luginaah, Nasong A. & Dhillon, Satveer & Batung, Evans S. & Ziegler, Bianca R. & Luginaah, Isaac, 2025. "The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents eating disorders: A systematic review," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 171(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:171:y:2025:i:c:s0190740925000738
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2025.108190
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Katharina Boldt & Michaela Coenen & Ani Movsisyan & Stephan Voss & Eva Rehfuess & Angela M. Kunzler & Klaus Lieb & Caroline Jung-Sievers, 2021. "Interventions to Ameliorate the Psychosocial Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children—A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-29, February.
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