• Countdown to the Launch
• Pharmacological Treatments for CFS
• Recent Research Studies
• Join Us for Lobby Day 2006
• Personal Story: Living with CFIDS
• MCS-safe Housing Proposed
• kNOw MORE CFS Seminar May 20, 2006
• I Want to be in Pictures!
• FDA MedWatch
• Conferences and Meetings
• Shop and Give
• Bulletin Board Notices

Countdown to the Launch

With only eight weeks to go before the June launch, work on various CFS Public Awareness Campaign components is in full swing. Visit http://www.cfids.org/cfidslink/2006/pac2.asp for an update on the exciting pre-campaign activities.

Pharmacological Treatments for CFS

Relatively few research studies or clinical trials have been done on drug therapies for chronic fatigue syndrome. In fact, no prescription drugs have been developed specifically to treat CFS. Researcher and writer Loretta D. Spotila, PhD reviews the research done thus far and provides information on the most common prescription and over the counter drugs, nutritional supplements and herbal remedies that physicians are using to treat their patients. Read on at http://www.cfids.org/special/pharma.pdf.

Recent Research Studies

Scientists are studying many aspects of Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection for clues into how the disease operates and reproduces. Two recent studies shed more light on the subject. One group has found specific gene expressions in those with postinfective fatigue from EBV. Another group has identified a protein that may switch the virus on in the first place. Details available at http://www.cfids.org/cfidslink/2006/research.asp. 

Join Us for Lobby Day 2006

We want YOU to join us in Washington, D.C. on May 8-9 for the CFIDS Association of America's 14th Lobby Day. This year's event is extra-special — in addition to talking with lawmakers about funding for research and treatment centers, disability and education issues, we'll be introducing members of Congress and their staff to the CFS awareness campaign. Get all the details at http://www.cfids.org/advocacy/lobby-day.asp. Hotel space is very limited – contact us today.

Personal Story: Living with CFIDS

Following last year's Lobby Day event, Association member Janet Helin wrote about the experience in an online journal. Read her unique perspective at http://crickster92.livejournal.com/810.html. 

MCS-safe Housing Proposed

Recreation Health & Wholeness is developing a housing community for people with CFS and fibromyalgia and has received numerous requests for housing help from people with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). As a result, they are offering part of their land, and all of their advice, to help start an MCS-safe community. More information is available at http://www.cfids.org/cfidslink/2006/housing.asp. 

kNOw MORE CFS Seminar May 20, 2006

Until there is "no more" CFS, it's vitally important for patients, caregivers and clinicians to "know more" about this illness. Please plan to join us in Akron, Ohio on Saturday, May 20, at the John S. Knight Center for presentations by nationally recognized CFS clinician Dr. David Bell and Pat Fennell, MSW, LCSW-R, creator of an internationally recognized treatment approach for chronic syndromes.

Tickets are $20 if purchased by May 12; $25 after deadline or at the door. Seating is limited so pre-registration is encouraged. The seminar begins at 1:00 p.m. and concludes at 4:30 p.m. To receive a brochure with registration form, send an e-mail to cfids@cfids.org, subject line "KNOW MORE", call 704-365-2343 or visit http://www.cfids.org/ecommerce/products.asp?setCategory=6 to purchase tickets online.

I Want to be in Pictures!

The CFIDS Association values its friends and supporters. To demonstrate our gratitude for your generosity and shared commitment to conquering CFS, we would be pleased to include your photograph in our 2005 Annual Report.

Send your photos to the Association, c/o Kim Almond, PO Box 220398, Charlotte, NC, 28222-0398 or electronically to kalmond@cfids.org. Pictures must be received before April 21st for consideration. Pictures cannot be returned and submission does not guarantee inclusion in the publication.

FDA Warns About Illegal Steroid Products Sold as Dietary Supplements

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned several manufacturers and distributors of unapproved drugs containing steroids that are marketed as dietary supplements that may cause serious long-term adverse health consequences in men, women, and children. Anabolic steroids are associated with causing adverse effects on blood lipid levels, and a potential to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Consumers who have any of the following products should stop taking them and return them to their place of purchase: