Comorbidity and related considerations

In this chapter, we consider evidence concerning the nature and extent of comorbidity associated with BED. Rather than attempting to systematically review the relevant literature in any particular area, we highlight some aspects of BED comorbidity and related considerations that are not specifically addressed in other sections of this book and that may be of benefit in helping clinicians and other health professionals to understand the patients who present to them. The focus is on comorbidity associated with BED in adults, although many of the principles could be seen to apply to children and adolescents and adults alike. This chapter is written from an epidemiological, rather than a clinical, perspective to reflect the primary interest and expertise of the first author. Elements of a sociological perspective also will be apparent. Our main goal is to introduce the epidemiological approach in addressing some of the issues raised when considering comorbidity associated with BED and with mental health problems more generally. In so doing we will facilitate the process of research-practice integration. However, there are implications for clinical practice and efforts will be made to highlight these when appropriate. We hope that readers whose interest is primarily clinical will bear with us.