Analysis of BMI as a continuous variable, based on self-reported weight and height measurement data, entails a small margin of error. However, its use as a categorical variable involves a considerable underestimate of the prevalence of high BMI, and an smaller overestimate of the prevalence of low BMI.

A considerable proportion of adolescent females have eating problems and non-psychotic mental disorders. Their male counterparts also suffer from these disorders, however, a different pattern is followed.