Cost of CFS to the U.S. Economy is Substantial

Researchers at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report today that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) costs the U.S. economy $9.1 billion per year in lost productivity. The study, published in the Open Access journal, Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation, is based upon a phone survey of 56,000 persons in Wichita, Kan., followed by thorough medical evaluations of those who complained of unusual fatigue lasting a month or more.

CFS, also known as chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome

(CFIDS) is a complex and debilitating condition that affects the brain and multiple body systems. CFIDS is characterized by incapacitating fatigue (experienced as profound exhaustion and extremely poor stamina), pain in the joints and muscles, problems with concentration and short-term memory, numerous flu-like symptoms and relapse following even minimal physical or mental exertion.

The $9.1 billion estimate does not include health care costs or payment of disability benefits, which are likely to be substantial. The direct cost cited is equivalent to the financial losses caused by digestive system disorders and infectious and parasitic diseases.

According to the study authors, "The extent of the burden indicates that continued research to determine the cause of and potential therapies for CFS could provide substantial benefit both for individual patients and for the nation."

This important study adds further evidence to the classification of CFIDS as a major public health concern. CFIDS affects approximately 800,000 U.S. and disproportionately affects women, African-Americans and Hispanics, and people of less-than-college education and lower socioeconomic status. Studies of adolescents and children have been insufficient to document prevalence in younger populations; however, those under 18 are at less risk for developing CFS than adults.