CFS prevalence and risk factors over time
Leonard A Jason1, Nicole Porter, Jessica Hunnell
1DePaul University, USA. Ljason@depaul.edu
Journal of Health Psychology
|January 13, 2011
Summary
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) rates remained stable over a decade in a community study. Physical symptoms, not psychosocial factors, were better predictors for diagnosing CFS.
Area of Science:
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) research
- Epidemiology of chronic illness
- Natural history studies
Background:
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a complex, debilitating condition with an unclear natural history.
- Longitudinal studies are crucial for understanding disease progression and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the long-term course and outcomes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) in a community-based population.
- To identify predictors that differentiate individuals diagnosed with CFS.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal, natural history study design was employed.
- Participants were drawn from a random, community-based, multi-ethnic population.
- Data were collected across two waves, approximately 10 years apart (1995-97 to Wave 2).
Main Results:
- The incidence of CFS remained stable between Wave 1 and Wave 2.
- A significant mortality rate was observed in both the CFS group (12.5%) and the medically/psychiatrically excluded group (18%).
- Physical measures of disability, fatigue, and somatic symptoms were stronger predictors of later CFS diagnosis than psychosocial measures like stress and coping.
Conclusions:
- CFS exhibits a stable prevalence over a decade in the general population.
- Mortality associated with CFS warrants further investigation.
- Objective physical and somatic symptom measures are more effective in identifying individuals who develop CFS compared to subjective psychosocial factors.
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