Tension as Indian student dies from prolonged starvation

Sreenanda, a 19 year old student from Meruvambayi in Kannur Indian, has died of anorexia nervosa on March 10, 2025.

According to Indian Time News (ITN), sreenanda is said to have died from eating disorder characterised by a restrictive eating pattern.

Sreenanda, who is also a first year student at Pazhassiraja NSS College in Mattannur, is said to have been under treatment at, Thalassery Cooperative Hospital for 10 days before her death.

Dr Nagesh Prabhu, who admitted her at Thalassery Cooperative Hospital, confirmed that Sreenanda arrived in the hospital with low blood pressure and sugar level.

He added that, her electrolyte levels were significantly low, with several organ damages which includes, her stomach and intestines due to severe food deprivation.

Dr Prabhu, further emphasised on her mental condition, stating that her situation had a psychiatric component and it is late for psychiatric intervention by the time she was admitted.

At the time of her admission, Sreenanda was bedridden on arrival, and while her exact weight could not be assessed, it was clear that she was severely underweight, he added.

Fact about Anorexia Nervosa

Medical experts has stated that anorexia nervosa, is a serious mental health condition characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severe restriction of food intake.

Study has showed that, people with anorexia sees themselves overweight, even when they are underweight or dangerously thin.

It is also claim that, this condition could lead to extreme weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and severe health complications.

Prevalence

According medical experts, Anorexia Nervosa affects approximately 1% of females and 0.3% of males in the general population.

Age of onset

Typically develops during adolescence or young adulthood, with the peak age of onset being around 16-17 years old.

Symptoms

Restrictive eating, significant weight loss, fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, excessive exercise, and obsessive behaviors.

Treatment

Experts have showed that, it requires a multidisciplinary approach, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family-based therapy, nutrition counseling, and medication.

Mortality rate

Anorexia Nervosa has the highest mortality rate among mental health conditions, with a mortality rate of around 5-10%.

However, Support from family, friends, and mental health professionals is crucial for recovery.

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