The Genetics of Eating Disorders study

The knowledge that researchers and clinicians have on the causes and prevalence of anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) is limited. Under the leadership of Drs. Archana Basu (HSPH), Benjamin Neale (ӳ��ý), and Mark Daly (ӳ��ý), our team at Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health and the ӳ��ý of MIT and Harvard is recruiting participants for a study to learn about how eating disorders like AN and BN affect individuals across the United States and how these conditions are shaped by genetic factors.

This study has the potential to expand knowledge of the genetic risk factors underlying eating disorders using large-scale data and sample collection, so that future progress in research and therapeutics can be applicable to and better serve a diverse population.

The Genetics of Eating Disorders study is actively recruiting participants. If you are interested in participating please complete the eligibility screening available here.

Study Process

Click to view the flow chart

Eligibility screener:

All interested individuals are invited to complete a short screener to determine their eligibility for the study

Informed consent:

Eligible participants are invited to review study procedures and provide consent for entering the study

Study survey:

Eligible participants who have provided consent are invited to complete study surveys related to eating disorders

DNA sample collection:

Eligible and consenting participants who complete the study surveys are invited to provide a saliva or blood sample for DNA

See if you’re eligible

Check if you may be eligible for the Genetics of Eating Disorders study by answering a few questions. Please note that once you click on the screener, you will be directed away from this website and to our data collection website where you will be able to provide your responses in a secure environment. Once you complete the eligibility screener we will ask for your email address so that we can follow up with you about your eligibility and next steps.