Binge eating behavior among a national sample of overweight and obese veterans

Objective: Despite the high prevalence of overweight and obesity in the US military veterans, binge eating has not been examined in this population. Design and Methods: Using a secondary data analysis approach, the prevalence and correlates of self‐reported binge eating among 45,477 overweight or obese veterans receiving care in Veterans Health Administration facilities were examined. Participants completed a 23‐item survey that assessed demographics, weight history, physical and mental health comorbidities, and eating habits during routine medical clinic visits. χ 2 and logistic regression were used to examine the relationships among binge eating and demographic variables and medical and psychiatric comorbidities. Results: Nearly, three‐quarters of the sample reported clinically meaningful binge eating (i.e., two or more times per week). Binge‐eaters were more likely to report higher body mass index, depression, anxiety, and type 2 diabetes ( P <0.0001). After controlling for potentially confounding variables, male veterans were significantly more likely to report clinically meaningful binge eating than female veterans ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: These results have important implications for modifying weight management programs and highlight the need for the assessment and treatment to address binge eating, particularly among men and patients with type 2 diabetes.