Examining the links between eating disorders and IBS. V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Examining the links between eating disorders and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): what are the roles of specific cognitions in linking eating disorders and IBS, and is perfectionism a vulnerability factor?
IRAS ID
217727
Contact name
Holly Panting
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bath
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
People with eating disorders are more likely to have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) than the general population. People who have both eating disorders and IBS tend to have less positive treatment outcomes and poorer quality of life. However, the links between eating disorders and IBS are not well understood. Only a few studies have examined the links between eating disorders and IBS. These studies suggest that eating disorder beliefs (and related behaviours) are associated with IBS symptoms. However, these studies have not looked at what types of specific beliefs make people with eating disorders more vulnerable to developing IBS. Research has also shown that people with eating disorders, and people with IBS have high levels of perfectionism, but studies have not looked at perfectionism in people who have both eating disorders and IBS.
This research study therefore aims to examine the links between eating disorders and IBS in other to further understanding and treatment in this area. This study will look at the role of specific beliefs (and linked behaviours) in linking eating disorders and IBS. This study also aims to look at the role of perfectionism as a potential vulnerability factor in the links between eating disorder and IBS.
In this study women with eating disorders, women with IBS, women with both eating disorders and IBS, and a benchmark group of healthy women will be asked to complete a questionnaire pack. These questionnaires will be analysed to test the role of specific beliefs (and linked behaviours) in linking eating disorders and IBS. It is hoped that the results of the study will help us to better understand the links between eating disorders and IBS, and help us to improve the treatment given to people with both conditions.
REC name
South Central - Oxford A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SC/0102
Date of REC Opinion
17 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion