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  • Derek F.H. Pheby
    Buckinghamshire New University
  • Diana Araja
    Riga Stradins University
  • Uldis Berkis
    Riga Stradins University
  • Elenka Brenna
    Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome
  • John Cullinan
    NUI Galway, Ireland
  • Jean-Dominique de Korwin
    University Hospital of Nancy
  • Lara Gitto
    Università degli Studi di Messina
  • Dyfrig Hughes
  • Rachael M. Hunter
    University College London
  • Dominic Trépel
    Trinity College Dublin
  • Xia Wang-Steverding
    University of East Anglia

This report addresses the extent to which there may be scope for preventive programmes for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and, if so, what economic benefits may accrue from the implementation of such programmes. We consider the economic case for prevention programmes, whether there is scope for preventive programmes for ME/CFS, and what are the health and economic benefits to be derived from the implementation of such programmes. We conclude that there is little scope for primary prevention programmes, given that ME/CFS is attributable to a combination of host and environmental risk factors, with host factors appearing to be most prominent, and that there are few identified modifiable risk factors that could be the focus of such programmes. The exception is in the use of agricultural chemicals, particularly organophosphates, where there is scope for intervention, and where Europe-wide programmes of health education to encourage safe use would be beneficial. There is a need for more research on risk factors for ME/CFS to establish a basis for the development of primary prevention programmes, particularly in respect of occupational risk factors. Secondary prevention offers the greatest scope for intervention, to minimise diagnostic delays associated with prolonged illness, increased severity, and increased costs.

Keywords

  • ME/CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome, economic impact, myalgic encephalomyelitis, prevention
Original languageEnglish
Article number388
JournalMedicina
Volume57
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Apr 2021

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