Browsing by Author "De Korwin, Jean Dominique"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Perceptions of European ME/CFS experts concerning knowledge and understanding of ME/CFS among primary care physicians in Europe : A report from the European ME/CFS research network (EUROMENE)
    (2021-03) Cullinan, John; Pheby, Derek F.H.; Araja, Diana; Berkis, Uldis; Brenna, Elenka; De Korwin, Jean Dominique; Gitto, Lara; Hughes, Dyfrig A.; Hunter, Rachael M.; Trepel, Dominic; Wang-Steverding, Xia; Department of Applied Pharmacy; Institute of Microbiology and Virology
    Background and Objectives: We have conducted a survey of academic and clinical experts who are participants in the European ME/CFS Research Network (EUROMENE) to elicit perceptions of general practitioner (GP) knowledge and understanding of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and suggestions as to how this could be improved. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was sent to all national representatives and members of the EUROMENE Core Group and Management Committee. Survey responses were collated and then summarized based on the numbers and percentages of respondents selecting each response option, while weighted average responses were calculated for questions with numerical value response options. Free text responses were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Overall there were 23 responses to the survey from participants across 19 different European countries, with a 95% country-level response rate. Serious concerns were expressed about GPs’ knowledge and understanding of ME/CFS, and, it was felt, about 60% of patients with ME/CFS went undiagnosed as a result. The vast majority of GPs were perceived to lack confidence in either diagnosing or managing the condition. Disbelief, and misleading illness attributions, were perceived to be widespread, and the unavailability of specialist centres to which GPs could refer patients and seek advice and support was frequently commented upon. There was widespread support for more training on ME/CFS at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Conclusion: The results of this survey are consistent with the existing scientific literature. ME/CFS experts report that lack of knowledge and understanding of ME/CFS among GPs is a major cause of missed and delayed diagnoses, which renders problematic attempts to determine the incidence and prevalence of the disease, and to measure its economic impact. It also contributes to the burden of disease through mismanagement in its early stages.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    The role of prevention in reducing the economic impact of ME/CFS in Europe : A report from the socioeconomics working group of the European network on ME/CFS (EUROMENE)
    (2021-04) Pheby, Derek F.H.; Araja, Diana; Berkis, Uldis; Brenna, Elenka; Cullinan, John; De Korwin, Jean Dominique; Gitto, Lara; Hughes, Dyfrig A.; Hunter, Rachael M.; Trepel, Dominic; Wang-Steverding, Xia; Faculty of Pharmacy; Institute of Microbiology and Virology
    This report addresses the extent to which there may be scope for preventive programmes for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and, if so, what economic benefits may accrue from the implementation of such programmes. We consider the economic case for prevention programmes, whether there is scope for preventive programmes for ME/CFS, and what are the health and economic benefits to be derived from the implementation of such programmes. We conclude that there is little scope for primary prevention programmes, given that ME/CFS is attributable to a combination of host and environmental risk factors, with host factors appearing to be most prominent, and that there are few identified modifiable risk factors that could be the focus of such programmes. The exception is in the use of agricultural chemicals, particularly organophosphates, where there is scope for intervention, and where Europe-wide programmes of health education to encourage safe use would be beneficial. There is a need for more research on risk factors for ME/CFS to establish a basis for the development of primary prevention programmes, particularly in respect of occupational risk factors. Secondary prevention offers the greatest scope for intervention, to minimise diagnostic delays associated with prolonged illness, increased severity, and increased costs.