Dr Micali says the prognosis is much better for children than adults if the problem is identified early by teachers and GPs and children are treated quickly.
Dr Nadia Micali, senior lecturer and honorary consultant psychiatrist at University College London's Institute of Child Health, says the latest figures show that 40 in 100, 000 10 to 14-year-olds are diagnosed with eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia.