RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Adult Eating Disorder Assessment Study

This study is looking for easier and more effective ways to identify eating disorders in adults. Researchers want to see if short, easy-to-fill-out questionnaires, that people can complete themselves, can accurately predict the results of a much more detailed interview with an expert. They are comparing these questionnaires to assessments by specialist eating disorder doctors and nurses, and a thorough structured interview. The goal is to develop reliable tools that can help diagnose common eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder earlier. Earlier diagnosis means people can get support and treatment sooner, which is very important for recovery. This study will involve 100 adults who have been referred to specialist eating disorder services.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Leicester

Enrolment target

100

Start

15 Jan 2024

Estimated completion

01 May 2027

Eating Disorders

What is this study about?

This study is really important because it's trying to improve how we spot eating disorders. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, are serious conditions that can affect anyone. Doctors, patients who have experienced these conditions, and their families all agree that finding better ways to diagnose them early is a top priority. Getting help quickly can make a big difference in someone's recovery journey.

The researchers want to see if some simple questionnaires, that people can fill out themselves, are good enough at picking up signs of an eating disorder. They're comparing these questionnaires to a very thorough, structured interview known as the SCANv3s9, and to the expert opinions of specialist eating disorder doctors and nurses. By doing this comparison, they hope to find out which tools work best to accurately identify these conditions. This will help make sure that when someone is showing signs of an eating disorder, they are directed to the right support as soon as possible.

Ultimately, the goal is to develop clear guidelines for diagnosing eating disorders. The study will look at 100 adults who have been referred to special eating disorder services. By understanding how well these different assessment methods work, both for those referred to specialist services and potentially for the wider public, we can improve how we understand and respond to eating disorders across the UK.

Key takeaways

The study aims to improve early detection of eating disorders.
It compares simple questionnaires with expert assessments.
Participation involves questionnaires and an interview.
No new medication is used; your regular care continues.
You can withdraw at any time without affecting your care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults who are at least 16 years old. To be considered, you must have been referred to a specialist eating disorder service recently. This includes those whose referral was accepted by the service, as well as those whose referral, for whatever reason, was not.

There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to take part. For example, if you are under 16 or haven't been referred to an eating disorder service, you wouldn't be able to join. Also, if you have a clinical diagnosis of intellectual disability, or if you are unable to understand English well enough to participate in written and spoken assessments, then unfortunately, this study wouldn't be suitable for you. Finally, if you're not able to give your informed consent to take part, you cannot join.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 16 years old or older?
Have you been referred to a specialist adult eating disorder service?
Do you understand and speak English well enough for assessments?
Are you able to give your consent to take part in a study?
Do you not have a clinical diagnosis of intellectual disability?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete some self-assessment questionnaires. You will also have an interview with a researcher, which is a detailed conversation about your symptoms. On top of this, your specialist eating disorder doctor or nurse will also assess you as part of your usual care. For a small group of participants (about one in four), there will be a request to repeat some of the assessments at a later date to check if the results are consistent over time. The study doesn't involve any new medication, and all your regular care will continue as normal. The total duration of your participation will depend on whether you are asked to do the repeat assessments, but generally, it will involve a few appointments.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help improve how eating disorders are diagnosed in the future, potentially leading to earlier support for others. You might also find that reflecting on your symptoms during the assessments helps you in subtle ways, though this isn't guaranteed. There are no known physical risks. However, discussing your symptoms might be emotionally challenging or bring up difficult feelings for some people, even though the researchers will be supportive. You are always in control and can withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and your decision will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Verified postcode
Leicester, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The main goal is to find better, simpler ways to identify eating disorders early so people can get help sooner.

Who can take part in this study?

Adults aged 16 or over who have been referred to a specialist eating disorder service can take part.

What will I have to do if I join?

You'll fill out some questionnaires and have a detailed interview with a researcher. Your regular doctor's assessment will also be part of the study.

Will I have to take new medication?

No, this study does not involve any new medication. Your usual medical care and treatment will continue as normal.

Can I change my mind after joining?

Yes, you can leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and your medical care will not be affected.

How to find out more

Associate Professor of Psychiatry & Honorary Consultant Psych, MRCPsych,PhD

st386@leicester.ac.uk +44 (0)116 252 5451 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.