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Kennedy School Review

Topic / Healthcare

S3E4: (Th)interventions for (Th)inspiration? Policy Responses to the Rise of Pro-Anorexia Websites

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We know about the dangers of the Dark Web, but what about the Thin Web? First Year Kennedy School Students Lucy O’Keeffe and Nagela Nukuna sit down with Andrea Alvarez Marin to discuss vulnerable corners of the internet where eating disorders such as Anorexia (“Ana”) and Bulimia (“Mia”) proliferate. Some of these “pro-Ana” websites glorify the pursuit of a thin, idealized body type, but they also attract people seeking support in dealing with their illness. What could and should public health- focused regulation look like in these delicate situations? Tune in to hear Alvarez Marin’s thoughts on the topic.

Image Credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/gzb4RKX-pdc