Anorexic student sues college

Anorexics take dieting to extreme measures

An anorexic student in the United States took her college to court for not allowing her to continue with her studies on the grounds of her condition.

Officials at Stonehill College, a Catholic institution in Easton, Massachusetts, argued they could not provide Keri Krissik with the level of support she needed.

Ms Krissik, now 20, has suffered from anorexia nervosa since she was eight years old.

I'm feeling good and I feel like I can handle the challenges

Keri Krissik

Last April she had a heart attack while at home in Milford, Connecticut.

While she finished her spring term coursework, she was not allowed to register for the following autumn term.

"The last time Ms. Krissik was on campus she almost died," said Elise Busny, a lawyer representing the college.

If she was allowed back, she added, there was a risk that she would drop dead on campus.

But, outside court, Ms Krissik told reporters: "I'm feeling good and I feel like I can handle the challenges."

Her lawyer, Abbe Ross, said her condition had improved and that the college was keeping her out only on the grounds of her disability.

The judge presiding over the case said she would rule on the matter shortly.

Self-starvation

Anorexia nervosa is a form of intentional self-starvation - what may begin as a normal diet is carried to extremes, with many reducing their intake to an absolute minimum.

It is also characterised by obsessive behaviour. The majority of anorexics deny they have a problem.

The effects of the disease can range from weight loss to delayed sexual development, heart problems, depression and death.