27 May 2011
A summary of recent M.E. related stories in the news. Headlines appearing in the media as dated.
Excellent presentations at M.E. conference
Ian Gibson MP attended the Invest in M.E. conference in London, 20 May, where he heard several excellent presentations about M.E. research. He says a highlight was when the deputy editor of the British Medical Journal told the conference that science had so far taken precedence over concern for patients, which prompted a noisy reaction from the large number of patients in the audience, who said her remarks were patronising.
Norwich Evening News, p 48
26/05/11
Reports of PACE results are far from accurate
In a letter to the editor, sports psychologist Phil Johnson points out that a previous article’s summary about the PACE trial was misleading. Mr Johnson, who has CFS, says the results it reported – that nearly a third of patients recovered using GET or CBT – are actually far from accurate, because a form of pacing underlies all treatments and it’s difficult for researchers to pin this down.
In another letter, Jennifer Kidd and Simon McGrath voice their concerns that exaggerated claims for the effectiveness of GET and CBT will divert resources away from effective medical treatment of M.E.
The Psychologist, p 400-401
01/06/11
Dangers of organophosphates
In a letter to the editor, Colin Peter Evans highlights the dangers of organophosphates, used as insecticide, which he says can lead to chronic fatigue syndrome.
Rochdale Observer, p 24
25/05/11
NHS reforms to be delayed, says Clegg
Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg has told patients and professionals at University College London hospital that it would be wrong to force the Health and Social Care Bill through, and claims that the legislation will be delayed by at least six months.
Guardian, online
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/may/26/nick-clegg-angers-tories-nhs-delay
26/05/11
Raising awareness of M.E. at college
Amy Martin, 16, was diagnosed with M.E. three years ago. She has been raising awareness about the illness at her college by setting up a stall selling cakes and talking to other students about M.E.
Chorley Guardian, p 20
25/05/11
Don’t give up hope
Janice Benning talks about recovering from M.E. after spending 14 years being bed bound with the condition. She says it was sheer determination that helped her get better, and she refused to give up hope.
Stroud News & Journal, p 5
25/05/11
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