An eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight and an overwhelming fear of gaining weight, with a distorted perception of weight.

• A. Bulimia
• B. Cachexia
• C. Anorexia
• D. Malnutrition

Answer: (C)

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder defined by a very low body weight achieved through restrictive eating, combined with an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of one’s own body size. Those features typically create persistent behaviors to avoid eating and to lose weight, even when underweight, and they may view themselves as overweight despite evidence to the contrary. This trio of characteristics helps explain why the condition stands apart from others: bulimia involves binge eating with compensatory behaviors and often occurs at normal or higher weights; cachexia is weight loss due to an underlying illness; malnutrition is a general lack of nutrients from inadequate intake or absorption and isn’t driven by a fear of weight gain or a distorted body image. Recognizing this pattern is important because anorexia can lead to serious medical complications and requires coordinated medical and psychological care.