The study, recently published in the BMJ1, which examined the
epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and self reported ME in 5-
15 year olds, attracted a number of emotive responses. We would like to
make a number of points about the study design and its execution. First,
the study used data that was collected independently of the authors,
without the specific aim of studying CFS/ME. Second, the sampling method
was specifically chosen to avoid selection bias. Third, response rates
were high as one might expect from Office for National Statistics studies
suggesting that it would be difficult to understand how substantial
numbers of children with serious morbidity could have been missed. Fourth,
we were criticised for using a broad definition. However, using a narrower
one as some correspondents wished would have resulted in the prevalence
rates being still lower.
We agree whole heartedly that irrespective of the numbers involved,
for those affected this is a very serious problem indeed, as we pointed
out in our press release. Our own experience means that we have no
difficulties at all in accepting that CFS is associated with profound
suffering, substantial disability and makes a considerable contribution to
long term school absence, longer than cystic fibrosis or leukaemia. We
therefore welcome unreservedly the announcements of Department of Health
funding for new services for children with CFS. The principal author runs
a research service which only sees children with CFS and is committed to
developing and evaluating treatments for the condition.
1. Epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome and self reported myalgic
encephalomyelitis in 5-15 year olds: cross sectional study (2003) BMJ.
327; 654-655.
Rapid Response:
Epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome
Sir,
The study, recently published in the BMJ1, which examined the
epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and self reported ME in 5-
15 year olds, attracted a number of emotive responses. We would like to
make a number of points about the study design and its execution. First,
the study used data that was collected independently of the authors,
without the specific aim of studying CFS/ME. Second, the sampling method
was specifically chosen to avoid selection bias. Third, response rates
were high as one might expect from Office for National Statistics studies
suggesting that it would be difficult to understand how substantial
numbers of children with serious morbidity could have been missed. Fourth,
we were criticised for using a broad definition. However, using a narrower
one as some correspondents wished would have resulted in the prevalence
rates being still lower.
We agree whole heartedly that irrespective of the numbers involved,
for those affected this is a very serious problem indeed, as we pointed
out in our press release. Our own experience means that we have no
difficulties at all in accepting that CFS is associated with profound
suffering, substantial disability and makes a considerable contribution to
long term school absence, longer than cystic fibrosis or leukaemia. We
therefore welcome unreservedly the announcements of Department of Health
funding for new services for children with CFS. The principal author runs
a research service which only sees children with CFS and is committed to
developing and evaluating treatments for the condition.
1. Epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome and self reported myalgic
encephalomyelitis in 5-15 year olds: cross sectional study (2003) BMJ.
327; 654-655.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests