Survey of knowledge and attitude towards fibromyalgia among physicians in Karachi, Pakistan

Our study aims to assess knowledge and understanding of FM among doctors employed at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan with a focus on its diagnostic criteria, treatment modalities, and general knowledge of symptoms.

Cross-sectional Study.

Our cross-sectional study recruited participants through convenience sampling. A total of 104 participants responded, which included (a) House Officers, (b) Medical Officers, and (c) Residents. A structured questionnaire was used, and an electronic form was generated which was then emailed to the participants to acquire their responses.

The majority (66.3%) of our respondents were female and the median age was 26 years. A majority (93.3%) accepted FM as a separate and distinct clinical identity, and 79.8% were confident in recognizing its general symptoms. Widespread pain (95.2%) and fatigue (80.8%) were correctly identified as most commonly observed symptoms. Moreover, 68.3% of respondents possessed no knowledge of both ACR 1990 and 2010 diagnostic criteria for FM. Of those aware, majority favored using the most recent ACR 2010 criteria (72.7%). Majority of our respondents (75%) preferred using pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions simultaneously in the treatment.

Our study indicates that while physicians have satisfactory knowledge of the symptoms and treatment modalities of FM, a knowledge gap concerning its diagnostic criteria exists. Proper treatment can only be successful when physicians successfully diagnose FM, therefore, future training programs should use this fact as a stepping stone for advances in its healthcare.