Bulimia Definition: Bulimia, also known as bulimia nervosa, is characterized by periods of binge-eating followed by inappropriate methods of weight control.  It is estimated that 90-95% of the people suffering from bulimia are female.  It is reported that among men who suffer from an eating disorder have a higher occurrence of a psychiatric illness and substance abuse.  Furthermore the incidence of homosexuality and bisexuality may also be increased in men with bulimia.  Eating disorders occur more in men who participate in sorts, usually as either a weight requirement or a low body fat requirement.   Eating disorders tend to develop in adolescents; however 5% of people develop disorders when they are about 25 years of age.  The highest rate of onset occurs at 18 years.  The development of bulimic behaviors at an earlier age may be associated with a more severe disease.   In the US it is reported that the lifetime occurrence of bulimia is 3%.  Bulimia affects about 6% of adolescents girls and 5% of college women.  It is estimated that 5 million individuals have experienced an eating disorder.  Up to 40% of college women have reported that they have experienced symptoms of bulimia, such as isolated episodes of binge eating and purging.  The occurrences of bulimia may be increasing however greater awareness of eating disorders may have resulted in more people reporting the conditions.   There are no clear causes of bulimia; it is believed that it begins with a dissatisfaction of the person’s body and intense anxiety with body size and shape. People who have bulimia tend to have low self-esteem, feel helpless and are fearful of becoming overweight.  Genetic factors are believed to contribute to the onset of bulimia.  Also, western culture often promotes and supports the idea of being thin via movies, magazines and TV.  Peer pressure may also add to individuals developing an eating disorder.