Extreme Weight Loss Behaviors in Racially Diverse Urban Adolescents.

PURPOSE: Extreme weight loss behaviors (EWLBs) pose a serious health risk to adolescents. Studies suggest a link between EWLBs and other health-compromising behaviors. Extending these findings, this study examines correlates of EWLB in a predominantly minority adolescent population.

METHODS: A secondary analysis of EWLB data from adolescents in an inner city pediatric emergency department was conducted. The sample (n = 3,876) included 60% African-American, 20% Hispanic, 16% Caucasian, and 4% Asian-Pacific Islander individuals. Comparative analyses and multivariate logistic regressions were applied.

RESULTS: Fifteen percent of the sample endorsed use of EWLBs; endorsement did not differ between minority and Caucasian groups, or among minority subgroups. EWLB correlates included female gender, hopelessness, abuse history, current smoking, and alcohol use.

CONCLUSIONS: Endorsement of EWLBs is not different between minority and Caucasian adolescents surveyed in an emergency department. Identified correlates are potential targets for prevention and early intervention.