The availability of nonprescribed and medically unapproved weight-loss products over the counter (OTC) has led to their exploitation by adolescents. However, the use of such products among teenagers has significant health implications, making it a matter of concern in public health. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open aimed to shed light on the prevalence of this behavior.
Teenagers and children are particularly vulnerable to eating disorders, as these periods coincide with crucial stages of growth and development. Eating disorders not only affect physical health but also signal underlying psychological issues that hinder social functioning. Furthermore, they contribute to abnormal weight gain, which can have a detrimental impact on overall well-being.
When adolescents resort to potentially harmful or dangerous methods of weight control, it raises a red flag. One such method is the use of weight control medications without a prescription. Research shows that using such drugs is associated with abnormal weight gain in adulthood and a higher risk of developing eating disorders later in life.
Adolescents who engage in such behavior often struggle with low self-esteem, poor eating habits, and an increased risk of depression. Additionally, they are more prone to substance abuse.
Globally, the prevalence of nonprescribed weight loss product use in adolescents varies, with recent-week usage reported at less than 2% in Australia, 2-6% for the past month, and approximately 3.5% for the past year. The need for a comprehensive global prevalence study in this area prompted the current research.
The study analyzed data from various databases, collecting information from 90 relevant studies on the use of nonprescribed weight loss aids among teenagers around the world. The majority of these studies (50 out of 90) were conducted in North America, and most were of moderate or good quality.
The results revealed that over 75% of the studies involved both boys and girls, with the remaining studies focusing solely on girls. Approximately two-thirds explored the prevalence of nonprescribed weight loss product use among the entire adolescent population, while the rest examined specific groups with risk factors like diabetes, substance use, or previously diagnosed eating disorders.
The findings indicated that over three-quarters of the studies addressed the use of diet pills, while just under half examined laxative use, and one-fifth investigated the use of diuretics.
Overall, the study found that around 6% of adolescents use OTC weight loss products, with girls being more at risk than boys. When considering a shorter period of inquiry, such as the prior week, 2% of the adolescent population reported using such products. However, this figure more than doubled when examining the past month. Moreover, over 6% of adolescents reported using nonprescribed weight loss products over the past year, and 9% reported having used them at least once in their lifetime.
Among the three categories of weight loss products, diet pills were the most commonly used at 6%, followed by laxatives at 4% and diuretics at 2%. Notably, girls exhibited a higher prevalence of nonprescribed weight loss product use compared to boys.
Approximately 10% of girls disclosed having used nonprescription weight loss products at some point in their lives. Importantly, these girls are more likely to struggle with low self-esteem, face parental pressure to lose weight, have a negative body image, and associate with friends who prioritize being thin. They also admit to being influenced by media or societal posts that promote unhealthy and unrealistic beauty standards.
Additionally, the study revealed that nonprescribed weight loss medication use is more prevalent in North America compared to Asia or Europe. Asian studies reported a higher past-year prevalence of use than European studies, indicating distinct risk factors within these subgroups.
The ease of access to nonprescribed weight loss products without a prescription, physician oversight, or age restrictions is a cause for concern. This emphasizes the urgent need for stricter regulations on such products, particularly among children and adolescents.
It is important to recognize that weight loss products intended for adults are unsuitable for children and can pose significant risks to their health. These products are ineffective for long-term or healthy weight loss, often leading to excessive weight gain in adulthood and an increased risk of developing eating disorders or depression.
In light of the study’s findings, interventions are necessary to curb the use of nonprescribed weight loss products among this vulnerable population. Raising awareness about the dangers associated with such products, promoting healthy body image, and addressing underlying psychological issues can help safeguard the well-being of adolescents.
Journal reference: Hall, N. Y. et al. (2023). Global prevalence of adolescent use of nonprescriptionweight-loss products: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Network Open. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.50940. https://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?doi=10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.50940.
