Predictors of Extreme Weight Loss Practices among High School Students

The Extreme Weight Loss Practices (EWLPs) represent a significant health problem for adolescents who need adequate nutrition for growth, development, achieving normal adult size, and reproductive capacity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has conducted the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey (YRBSS) since 1991 to monitor high school students' risk behaviors and has included three EWLPs since 1999. This study aimed to explore the predictor of EWLPs among high school students. We compiled 5 biennial YRBSS data from 1999 to 2007 into one data set and used multiple logistic regression to model the predictors of EWLPs. The EWLPs include fasting, taking diet pills/powder without doctor's advice, and vomiting or taking laxatives to lose weight during the past 30 days. The latest YRBSS data showed nearly one out of six high school students engaged in the EWLP. The compiled data set, which included 72,122 responses, showed nearly 18% students engaged in at least one EWLP. The multiple logistic regression modeled 5 predictors. Female students tend to have elevated risk of EWLP (OR=1.36, p<.001) than male students. Students who had eaten less food to lose weight (OR=3.96, p<.001), intended to lose weight (OR=2.09, p<.001), had tried exercise (OR=1.31, p<.001), and described themselves overweight (OR=1.25, p<.001) appeared statistically significant in predicting EWLPs. The YRBSS data confirmed that female students tend to engage in EWLP more than males. This study also found associated psychosocial predictors (perceived weight and intention) of EWLPs and the other healthier weight loss practices (exercise and eat less).