Is Anorexia Glamorous? Erika, 26, is a patient at an eating disorders center in Italy. Despite the enormous social pressure on girls and women to be thin, there is nothing glamorous about death by heart or kidney failure. Anorexia also causes loss of hair, muscle, and teeth. Other complications include osteoporosis, loss of reproductive function, chronic fatigue, and physical weakness. Extreme malnutrition produces a fine, soft hair called lanugo that may cover the face, chest, arms, and back. Eating disorders are also associated with increased rates of suicide (Crow & others, 2009). For information or help, call 1-800-931-2237 or visit the National Eating Disorders Association Web site.
Annette Schreyer/laif/Redux