Watch this short video featuring Eating Disorder Genetics Initiative Two (EDGI2) Researcher, Natasha Berthold, North Carolina, USA, reflecting on the link between genes and environment to understand the how and why of eating disorders.
Eating disorders are surprisingly prevalent and are among the mental health conditions with the highest mortality rates worldwide, yet much remains unknown about why some cases become chronic and severely disabling.
“I’m actively involved in recruitment and will be taking part in the analysis of data to help us better understand how genes and environment intersect in the development of eating disorders.
“I have my own lived experience of an eating disorder, and I consider science to have been what saved me,” said Berthold.
Berthold explains this is part of the reason why she’s hoping to use science to help people who currently, or will experience an eating disorder.
“We’re asking all Australians who are 18 plus to contribute to the Australian branch of the Eating Disorder Genetics Initiative Two (EDGI2) by taking part in an online questionnaire and giving a spit sample.” Said Berthold.
If this resonates with you, please consider participating in the Eating Disorder Genetics Initiative Two (EDGI2), to help researchers like Natasha Berthold identify the genes influencing a person’s risk of developing eating disorders, and how well treatments work.
“Science is a lot stronger when we do this together,” said Berthold.
To volunteer, head to: edgi2.org.au
