CDC Survey Finds 40 Percent of High School Students Report Binge Eating

October 15, 2026 - 05:48

A new survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that roughly 40 percent of high school students reported binge eating within the past month. The finding points to how common this form of disordered eating has become among young people across the country.

Binge eating involves consuming unusually large amounts of food in a short period while feeling a lack of control over the behavior. Unlike bulimia, it is not followed by purging, which can make it harder for parents, teachers, and even doctors to notice.

The survey data adds to a growing body of evidence that disordered eating habits are not limited to a small group of teenagers. Researchers say stress, social pressure, and easy access to highly processed foods may all play a role. Many students who binge eat do so in private and rarely seek help, partly because of shame or a lack of awareness that the behavior is a recognized condition.

Health experts note that early intervention matters. Left unaddressed, binge eating can lead to serious physical and emotional problems, including weight gain, depression, and anxiety. Schools and families are being urged to watch for warning signs and to treat the issue as a public health concern rather than a personal failing.