Incidence and causality of anorexia nervosa seen in a historical perspective.

The history of the affliction known as anorexia nervosa can be divided into two periods. Before the year 1600, this condition is described first and foremost in connection with religious life, 'holy anorexia'. From about 1600 onward and up to our own times, it has become more of medical and pathological concept, depending on and reflecting the changing directions of medical fashion somatically, psychiatrically, and socio-culturally. There seems to be increased interest at certain times, but it has not been possible to document the alleged increase in incidence in recent decades.