ME/CFS Society of WA: Research

The US CDC estimates there are now over 3,000 research studies revealing clear evidence of physical abnormalities and dysfunctions in a wide range of body systems/organs of people affected by the disease. Recent US research has also indicated that the economic cost of ME/CFS to the Australian economy could be as much as $3.8 billion annually in lost productivity alone.

"Knowing there is a biological basis for CFS will help us identify better ways to more effectively diagnose the illness and to come up with more effective treatments."
-Dr. William Reeves, Chief of US CDC CFS Research Program

Despite this not enough is yet known about the causes and underlying disease process of ME/CFS. Without better understanding of these two vital aspects of the disease better treatments and care for those affected remain out of reach.

The Society, in conjunction with our affiliated research partner The Alison Hunter Memorial Foundation, recognises the need for more and better biomedical research into every aspect of the disease. Key to the success of any research program will be the use of a more accurate and representative case definition (description) of the disease.

We have joined with other Patient Support Societies in Australia in calling on the Federal Government (see the Society News category in our News & Media section) to appropriately fund and instigate such a program. We also recognise the important role our own efforts will play in stimulating and raising funds for quality biomedical research.