Anorexia Nervosa Mortality Rate: Medical Complications & Risks

Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. Up to 20% of individuals die from medical complications or suicide.

Leading Medical Causes of Death

• Cardiac: Arrhythmias (QT prolongation, electrolyte-driven), sudden cardiac death, cardiomyopathy.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypophosphatemia (refeeding syndrome).
• Multi-organ failure: End-stage starvation physiology.
• Infection: Immune compromise + poor wound healing.

Suicide

Accounts for ~1 in 5 deaths; risk elevated with comorbid depression, hopelessness, isolation.

Key Message

Anorexia is not a "lifestyle choice"—it's a lethal illness. Early, intensive, multidisciplinary treatment (medical, nutritional, psychiatric) saves lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, seek specialized eating disorder care immediately.