'Worrying' increase in number of child admitted to hospital with eating disorders
The rate was 40% higher from the figure in 2020
Experts have expressed concern at the 'worrying' number of children being taken into hospital with eating disorders.
Provisional data from the NHS from April to October 2021 found that 4,238 children under the age of 17 being admitted for treatment in England.
This number is over 40% higher during the same period in 2020, and 69% higher than what it had been in 2019.
The figures are part of a 'hidden epidemic' of people in the UK suffering from eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating.
According to the data, over 23,000 people across all age groups in England were admitted to hospital to treat the disorders. This figure was up 13% on the same period previous year.
Despite the rising number of admissions, psychiatrists have warned that stretched resources mean that not everyone who needs help will be treated.
Chair of the Eating Disorders Faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Dr. Agnes Ayton, said that the COVID-19 pandemic has strained the service even more.
"The hidden epidemic of eating disorders has surged during the pandemic with many community services now over-stretched and unable to treat the sheer number of people needing help," she said.
"Early intervention is key to recovery and to preventing serious illness, which is why it's crucial that the money announced by Government urgently reaches the frontline."
Campaign director at mental health charity YoungMinds, Tom Madders, said that the new data was 'worrying' for children and adults alike.
"The factors behind eating disorders are often complex but the impact of the last two years has left many young people isolated, uncertain about the future and with less control over their lives," he said.
"We know the NHS is under increasing pressure and staff are working extremely hard to support those that need it, but it's clear the Government must re-double its efforts and ensure that it improves access to NHS services.
"It's also crucial that early support is available for young people in their local communities, which is why we want to see the Government invest in a network of early support hubs."