Eating Disorder Screening Tools
Validated assessments for anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and related conditions
Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. Early identification through validated screening enables timely intervention, as outcomes improve significantly with early treatment.
Why Eating Disorders Screening Matters
Recommended Eating Disorders Screening Tools
SCOFF Questionnaire
Ultra-brief 5-item screener designed for primary care. Named for its five questions (Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food). High sensitivity for anorexia and bulimia.
Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire
Comprehensive self-report measure assessing eating disorder psychopathology across four subscales: restraint, eating concern, shape concern, and weight concern.
Clinical Impairment Assessment
Measures psychosocial impairment secondary to eating disorder features. Helps determine clinical significance and treatment need.
Patient Health Questionnaire-9
Depression commonly co-occurs with eating disorders. Screening for comorbid conditions is essential for comprehensive treatment planning.
Benefits of Routine Eating Disorders Screening
- Eating disorders are often hidden due to shame and denial
- Medical complications can be severe if undetected
- Many patients present with other complaints (GI issues, amenorrhea, fatigue)
- Validated screening increases detection rates substantially
- Early treatment dramatically improves prognosis and recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best screening tool for eating disorders?
The SCOFF is the recommended brief screener for primary care (5 items, 1-2 minutes). For comprehensive assessment, the EDE-Q provides detailed evaluation across four key domains.
What SCOFF score indicates an eating disorder?
A SCOFF score of 2 or more positive answers indicates likely eating disorder and warrants comprehensive evaluation. The SCOFF has high sensitivity (84.6%) for detecting eating disorders.
Who should be screened for eating disorders?
Consider screening when patients present with unexplained weight changes, GI complaints, amenorrhea, electrolyte abnormalities, or express concerns about weight/shape. Athletes and adolescents are higher-risk populations.
Are eating disorder screening tools free?
The SCOFF is in the public domain. The EDE-Q and CIA are freely available for clinical and research use from their authors.
Eating disorders can be medical emergencies
Severe eating disorders can cause life-threatening medical complications. If a patient is medically unstable (severe bradycardia, electrolyte imbalances, syncope), immediate medical evaluation is essential. The NEDA Helpline provides support at Call or text 1-800-931-2237.
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