Media Release
26 August 2003
New Zealand First Seeks Eating Disorder Funds
New Zealand First youth affairs spokesperson Craig McNair has called for immediate research into eating disorders
amongst New Zealand children.
“It is becoming commonplace for children as young as 11 to suffer from anorexia and bulimia with some as young as 7
being diagnosed with the disorders,” said Mr McNair.
“Yet the Ministry of Youth Affairs admits there are no policies being developed to battle these life-threatening
disorders.
“The last thorough survey on eating disorders dates back to the mid-1990’s so we are placed in the precarious position
of not knowing the full extent of this problem or how to best approach solutions.
“Funding should immediately made available by the Government to learn more about these disorders and how we work towards
helping these young children before it spirals out of control,” said Mr McNair.
ENDS