EDGI UK x Rosetrees Collaboration

Working Together to Understand the Genetics of ARFID

EDGI UK (the Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative) has joined forces with researchers specialising in Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) to better understand the genetic and biological factors that contribute to this condition.

ARFID is one of the least-studied eating disorders, despite affecting children, young people, and adults across the UK. This collaboration brings together EDGI UK, the National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH), and researchers at Cardiff University, with support from the Rosetrees Trust (cofunded by The Stoneygate Trust and the Robert Luff Foundation) and aims to change that by building the largest UK dataset on the clinical features of ARFID, and the genetic & environmental risk factors.

By taking part, you'll be contributing directly to research that could shape how ARFID is understood, recognised, and treated in the future, for yourself, your family, and others navigating similar experiences.

Key Partners

EDGI UK
Leading genetic research in eating disorders.
Rosetrees Trust
Co-funded by Stoneygate & Robert Luff.
Cardiff University & NCMH
Specialist psychiatric genetics team.

Why This Collaboration Matters

Help us build a stronger foundation of knowledge

ARFID is under-researched
Most eating disorder research to date has focused on conditions like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. ARFID has a distinct profile (often involving sensory sensitivities, fear of aversive consequences, and low appetite or interest in food) and needs its own evidence base.
Genetics can help explain "why"
Understanding the biological contributors to ARFID can help reduce stigma, improve early identification, and support the development of more effective, personalised treatments.
Direct Global Impact
Your data contributes to something bigger. Findings from this work will feed into international eating disorder ARFID research, amplifying the impact of every participant's contribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ARFID?
Who can take part?
What will I be asked to do?
How long will it take?
Is my information kept confidential?
Will I find out my results?
Can I take part if I’m currently having treatment for ARFID?
Can I take part on behalf of my child?
Can I withdraw after signing up?
Who is running this study?
Who can I contact with questions?

How Taking Part Works

Five simple steps to contribute to vital research

1
Register your interest. Sign up online using the Join Now button below. It takes just a couple of minutes.
2
Check your eligibility. We'll confirm you meet the study criteria and answer any initial questions.
3
Complete the online questionnaires. You'll be asked about your experiences with food, eating, and related history, in your own time and at your own pace.
4
Provide a saliva sample. We'll post a simple, at-home collection kit with clear instructions. You post it back to us in the prepaid envelope provided.
5
You're part of the research. Your contribution joins a growing UK-wide dataset helping to advance the understanding of ARFID.