London, Nov 13 (ANI): A new survey has revealed that an alarming numbers of teenagers are using a network of underground "pro-anorexia" websites that glamorise and promote the life-threatening eating disorder.
The research found that more than 10 per cent of schoolgirls aged 13 to 17 and almost six per cent of boys have used a pro-anorexia site, despite high-profile search engines blocking them after media outrage, the Daily Express reported.
It polled 711 teenagers and revealed 32 per cent of them have a positive opinion of the sites, which encourage users to starve.
Tips and tricks to reach a "goal weight" include eating cotton wool, inflicting pain to inhibit cravings and viewing pictures of skinny models, celebrities and other site users to boost motivation.
There are also suggestions on how to dupe family and friends that a meal has been eaten.
Websites may have trademark emblems with which followers demonstrate their dedication to an anorexic lifestyle, such as a red bracelet, worn by celebrity Nicole Richie and actress Lindsay Lohan in the past.
"These sites should act responsibly. Anorexia and bulimia are dangerous activities and people can be encouraged to copy them," said Mary George, of eating disorder charity Beat.
The research was published in the European Eating Disorders Review. (ANI)
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