For many the term "anorexia" conjures up memories of skinny, weight-obsessed teenagers, models and actresses. However, as the spotlight has been put on anorexia, bringing this secret and silent disorder into wider public perception, many still suffer in silence: either from the shame of seeking treatment, or because of an improper diagnosis. Over three million men are affected every year. from anorexia. Despite this, men are less likely to be diagnosed and the disorder is often overlooked due to the misconception that it is a “female disease.” Unlike women, who are generally afraid of becoming overweight in an image-obsessed society, men with the disorder tend to believe they are overweight, suffer from depression or maladaptive versions of perfection. Add the pressure of competition and the dangers of anorexia among men increase, and unfortunately, for many men these dangers remain largely unknown. Anorexia nervosa is classified as an eating disorder. Some of its symptoms include: refusal to maintain body weight at 85% or more of expected values, obsession with body image/weight, isolation, poor or deluded self-image, depression and the need to maintain rigid control over 'diet. , appetite and caloric intake (National Association of Anorexia and Associated Disorders, 2011). Anorexia is considered a serious disorder that often coexists with other disorders such as; depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and personality disorders. It can also occur as a response to traumatic events such as molestation or rape. The disorder is essentially the same in both males and females. However, there are different factors for each gender. While females tend to have a large...... half of paper......ordered-eating-habits.htm on 2011, November 04.Nevin, D. (2010). Wrestling Weight Management Information 2011-2012. Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association. Retrieved from http://www.niaa.com/sports/wrest/wwm/wwm2009-10Info on 2011, November 04.Shaw, G. (2007, November 08). Anorexia: The Neglected Body What exactly does anorexia nervosa do within the human body? The heart and bones suffer the most. WebMD. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/anorexia-nervosa/features/anorexia-body-neglected on November 4, 2011. Perry, D. (Producer and Director). (2008). Boy interrupted [movie]. (Available from http://www.amazon.com/Boy-Interrupted-TBC/dp/B002FU6F16/re)Waltz, V. (2011). Athletes and eating disorders: Dark truths about the hunger to win. BU OggiBostonia. Retrieved from http://www.bu.edu/boswtonia/web/proctor/ November 2011 04.