Program to prevent eating disorders by enhancing protective factors
A Randomized Controlled Trial of an Interactive Non-Stigmatizing Intervention to Prevent Eating Disorders in Youths Through Strengthening of Protective Factors
This study is testing a new program aimed at helping young people aged 15-20 who struggle with body image issues to see if it can prevent eating disorders by promoting a healthier relationship with their bodies.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 644 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 20 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Karolinska Institutet Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Solna) |
| Trial ID | NCT05863598 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a prevention program designed to reduce the incidence of eating disorders among youth aged 15-20 who experience body dissatisfaction. The program focuses on enhancing protective factors such as body appreciation, body image flexibility, intuitive eating, and acceptance, and will be compared to a credible placebo intervention involving expressive writing. The study will assess the program's efficacy and cost-effectiveness over a period of 36 months, while also exploring participant experiences and potential gender differences in outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are youth aged 15-20 who report feelings of body dissatisfaction.
Not a fit: Patients with existing eating disorders, depression, or other serious medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce the onset of eating disorders in at-risk youth by promoting healthier body image and eating behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using protective factors for preventing eating disorders, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Youth and young people (15-20 years) with a subjective experience of body dissatisfaction. Exclusion Criteria: Indications of depression, or suicidality, as well as presence of an eating disorder, or other conditions that may require medical attention, or conditions that makes it impossible to complete the intervention (e.g., not being able to read and write in Swedish).
Where this trial is running
Solna
- Karolinska Institutet — Solna, Sweden (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ata Ghaderi, PhD — PI employed at Karolinska Institutet
- Study coordinator: Ata Ghaderi, PhD
- Email: ata.ghaderi@ki.se
- Phone: +46 8 524 832 48
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.