New study highlights wide spread of chronic fatigue syndrome

Almost two per cent of 16-year-olds have chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) lasting more than six months, according to a University of Bristol study.

The research, which is believed to be the biggest study of CFS in children to date, has also indicated that nearly three per cent experience the condition for more than three months. Those with CFS missed more than half a day of school every week on average.

These conclusions were formed after assessing 5,756 children born in the 1990s, with girls shown to be almost twice as likely as boys to have the condition. Children from families experiencing greater adversity were also more likely to be affected.

Also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), this debilitating disease can have a major impact on the lives of those affected, causing persistent exhaustion that does not abate with rest or sleep.

Previous research from the university showed that 94 per cent of children with CFS reported being disbelieved, while only ten per cent had access to specialist treatment.

Dr Simon Collin, the report's lead author, said: "The results of our study underscore the need for further research into the causes of and improved treatments for paediatric CFS."