What is SCOFF?
SCOFF is a short, validated questionnaire of just 5 yes/no questions, developed to pre-screen for eating disorders (especially anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa) (Morgan, Reid & Lacey, 1999). Its name comes from the key words in the English questions (Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food). Its purpose is not to diagnose but to quickly point toward the question, "Is a professional assessment needed?" Because it is brief and practical, it is widely used in primary care and for screening.
How is it scored?
Each "Yes" answer is worth 1 point; "No" is 0 points. The total score ranges from 0 to 5:
Total ≥ 2 → a professional assessment is suggested
Source: Morgan JF, Reid F, Lacey JH, "The SCOFF questionnaire: assessment of a new screening tool for eating disorders", BMJ, 1999. Threshold: a score of 2 or more is a sensitive marker for further assessment. This tool is for informational purposes and does not provide a diagnosis.
What to do if you're at risk?
- Remember this is not a diagnosis: A high score only means "it may be worth being assessed."
- See a professional: Talk with a physician, psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or a dietitian experienced in eating disorders.
- Don't put it off: With eating disorders, early support markedly improves the chances of recovery.
- You are not alone: Opening up to someone you trust and asking for support is a powerful step.
- In an emergency (thoughts of self-harm, serious physical symptoms), call 112 without delay or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. SCOFF is a screening test; it only indicates whether a professional assessment for an eating disorder may be worthwhile. A diagnosis can only be made through a comprehensive evaluation by a health professional.
On SCOFF, a score of 2 or more is considered a meaningful marker for further assessment. This threshold is sensitive for screening anorexia and bulimia; however, a professional consultation is needed for certainty.
A low score does not confirm that nothing is wrong. Screening tests don't catch every case. If you have ongoing distress about food, weight, or body image, see a professional regardless of your score.
The main ones are anorexia nervosa (severe restriction and fear of weight gain), bulimia nervosa (binging and compensatory behaviors), and binge eating disorder. Each is serious and treatable; early support matters.
Anyone concerned about food, weight, or body image can use it as an awareness tool. It is especially useful for those experiencing restriction, binging, vomiting, or intense weight/shape worries.
Yes. All calculation is done in your browser; your answers are not sent to a server or stored. Only you see the result.