ETIOLOGY, PATHOGENESIS AND TRIGGERS FOR THE ONSET OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex psychiatric disorder with multifactorial etiology involving genetic, neurobiological, psychological, familial, and sociocultural components. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified significant genetic loci contributing to AN, revealing shared heritability with other psychiatric conditions and metabolic traits. Neurobiological findings indicate dysfunctions in dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic pathways, which influence reward processing, appetite regulation, and anxiety. Alterations in neuropeptides such as ghrelin, leptin, and neuropeptide Y further highlight the biological underpinnings of AN and its interaction with nutritional states. Family and environmental factors, including parental attitudes, stress, and sociocultural pressures, play critical roles in the onset and maintenance of disordered eating behaviors. The study also identifies specific and non-specific triggers leading to AN onset, such as internalization of thin-ideal body image, health-oriented dietary restrictions, athletic performance pressure, and weight-related teasing. These triggers often interact with individual vulnerabilities, contributing to maladaptive eating behaviors and distorted body image. The multidimensional model proposed emphasizes the interplay between biological predisposition, environmental exposure, and cognitive-emotional regulation. Recognizing and addressing these triggers through early intervention and psychoeducation could significantly improve prevention and treatment outcomes. Further cross-cultural research is necessary to understand the specific sociocultural determinants of AN and to develop tailored preventive strategies.