Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is a debilitating condition affecting millions. Characterized by persistent fatigue, muscle aches, difficulty concentrating and memory issues, it can have significant emotional and economic impacts.
Diagnosing ME/CFS is particularly challenging due to its complex nature. Research has been limited, with current understanding failing to pinpoint physical or psychological causes. The EU estimates 2 million people in the UK and EU are affected annually, resulting in an economic loss of €40 billion.
European Health Commissioner Oliver Varhely has urged the medical community to invest in research through Horizon Europe, the EU’s research program. Recent calls for research funding have been expanded to focus on ME/CFS and “long COVID,” a condition affecting some COVID-19 survivors.
Varhely notes that EU-funded projects studying long COVID could benefit ME/CFS research due to shared underlying factors. With little known about either condition, increased investment in research is necessary to develop effective solutions for these patients.
Source: https://www.eunews.it/en/2025/01/28/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-eu-still-knows-too-little-and-calls-for-research