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Should pro anorexia and bulimia Web sites be banned?
By GabeSemenza in Crowdsourcing
December 4, 2008
A growing number of Web sites are cropping up online -- Web sites that offer tips about how to be an effective anorexic or bulimic.
 
France had enough. The country's government is banning these sites from the Web.
 
Advocate reporter Aprill Brandon wants to know what you think. Should these sites be banned?
 
"One one side, medical professionals and many others are saying that these Web sites encourage anorexics and those in recovery by giving them tips to lose weight and by making it seem like eating disorders are not a disease, but a lifestyle choice," Aprill notes.
 
"On the other hand you have people who say that the government should not regulate how we live and that the Internet should be a source of free information and not censored. Plus these pro ana sites give those with eating disorders a sense of community because they found others like them that they can talk to and many of the sites also offer help for those who no longer wish to suffer from an eating disorder."
 
Aprill wants to talk to anyone who has or had an eating disorder, or any family and friends of those with an eating disorder -- or any doctor or counselor who has an opinion about the issue.
 
You can share your thoughts or story by posting in here, or by reaching Aprill at abrandon@vicad.com or 361-580-6514.
 
Thanks for your help,
 
Gabe Semenza/Advocate public service editor