Disordered eating and eating disorders occur along a spectrum of severity and occur more frequently in individuals with type 1 diabetes [Pinhas-Hamiel et al. 2015]. Insulin omission is a unique eating disorder behaviour only possible in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Such behaviour has been implicated as the primary cause of recurrent ketoacidosis in adolescents, and eating disorders should be high on the differential diagnosis of these patients [Glasgow et al. 1991].
Eating disorder behaviours in such patients are associated with serious health consequences and premature death [Bryden et al. 2001]. These behaviours are associated with recurrent ketoacidosis, and early onset of microvascular complications, particularly retinopathy, which has been observed within 4 years of disordered eating in such patients. [Rydall et al. 1997, Colas 1991, Nielsen 2002].
Eating disorder behaviours in patients with diabetes present significant challenges for the patient, their family, and clinicians. Multidisciplinary teams need to be upskilled in the prevention, detection and management of such presentations. This interactive workshop will provide attendees with the knowledge, skills and confidence to assess and manage patients with comorbid diabetes and subthreshold and clinical eating disorders. Strategies for effective collaboration between diabetes teams, psychiatry and eating disorders specialist services will also be discussed.