Discussing muscle dysmorphia Published Sept. 14, 2009 By Capt. Meagan Bender 21st Aerospace Physiology PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Body image is a subject that has been researched extensively in women. However, significantly less research has been conducted related to body image disorders in males. A growing trend has been identified in young males with a new sub category of body dysmorphic disorder known as muscle dysmorphia. This group of individuals is concerned with achieving increasingly leaner and more muscular physiques. In the last 30 years there appears to have been a cultural shift in what is considered the ideal male body image. Many hyper-masculine models and entertainers, such as those featured in professional wrestling, movies, and on covers of popular fitness magazines, are revered by many males and our society as the epitome of physical attractiveness and masculinity. Profound morphological changes over the last 30 years in many of the most popular action figures marketed to young boys has been observed. GI Joe's chest in 1973 was 44.4 inches while GI Joe's chest in 1998 measured in at 54.8 inches. GI Joe's biceps increased from 12.2 inches to 26.8 inches. It has also been observed that Stars Wars action figures have acquired impressive gains particularly in the shoulder and chest areas. Individuals with MD are preoccupied by compulsive and irrational thoughts regarding their perceived small musculature despite actually displaying high levels of muscular development. This preoccupation can cause significant psychological distress, which may lead to increased mood, social, and anxiety disorders in this population. Individuals with MD focus on altering their body shape primarily through exercise with a secondary emphasis on diet. Some health risks associated with MD include musculoskeletal injuries from overtraining, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, steroid abuse, drug addiction, eating disorders, infections, and death. The Carter P. Luna Physiological Training Unit here is the expert in human performance enhancement and we want to help you help yourself, or your organization, maintain peak fitness without damaging your body. Call today at 556-4185 to schedule your next consult or briefing.