1 March 2012
A study published online by The Lancet today has found that FITNET, a web-based programme of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) offers "a readily accessible and highly effective treatment for adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome."
Sir Peter Spencer, Chief Executive, Action for M.E., says: "FITNET appears to have shown up well in this trial but we would not agree that it puts effective treatment within reach of any adolescent as is claimed. It is good news for some but should not be exaggerated. CBT is not a miracle cure even when delivered online.
"We do strongly agree with the emphasis on the need for proper and rapid diagnosis in adolescents. The teenagers who took part in this study had to rate themselves as being ‘completely recovered or as feeling much better.’ Action for M.E. welcomes research that values patient-reported outcomes alongside fatigue severity and physical functioning scores.
"Empirical research into therapies has merit but it is no substitute for the more fundamental research that is urgently needed into the biology of M.E. Only this will establish the cause of the condition and help us to find much more effective treatments."
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