John Prescott, once the deputy prime minister and a stalwart figure in the Labour Party, was renowned for his robust, no-nonsense political style. An emblem of the old-school Labour MP, Prescott was famous for his ability to down a pint in mere seconds and his fiery public demeanor, as vividly demonstrated when he punched a farmer who egged him back in 2001.

However, behind the public persona, Prescott privately battled an issue often mischaracterized as a “women’s disease”—bulimia. This eating disorder involves consuming large quantities of food in a single sitting, followed by attempts to purge the excess through vomiting, laxatives, diuretics, fasting, or excessive exercise.

The roots of bulimia nervosa are complex, with genetics playing a role, but triggers often include stress and the pressures of weight management. For Lord Prescott, stress was a significant factor in his struggle with the disorder.

Serving as the MP for Kingston upon Hull East until his retirement, Prescott passed away at the age of 86 after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s. In 2008, he courageously disclosed his experience with bulimia, earning commendations for shedding light on eating disorders among men, a demographic often overlooked in discussions about such conditions.

The former MP for Kingston upon Hull East, who has died age 86 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s — went public with his condition in 2008, and was praised for raising awareness for eating disorders in men.

• Read the full story by John Ely here