Prevalence of alcohol use and smoking in eating disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: The purpose of this study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of alcohol and smoking in eating disorders. Methods: The databases used in this study were PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. These databases were searched in English by December 2023. The sample size and event for alcohol use and smoking were extracted from each of the studies. Also, the subgroups were examined based on the types of eating disorders. The random-effects method was used to combine the results of the studies. Results: The prevalence of alcohol use in eating disorders is equal to 27% (CI 23–32%; I2 = 99.6%). The prevalence of smoking in eating disorders is equal to 31% (CI 27–36%; I2 = 99.1%). The prevalence of alcohol use in anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder was 26%, 390%, and 29% respectively. The prevalence of smoking in anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder was 24%, 41%, and 35% respectively. Conclusion: Based on the findings, it was shown that the prevalence of alcohol use and smoking in eating disorders is high. Accordingly, this issue needs to be considered by health professionals and health policy to be used in activities related to prevention and treatment.