Chapter Three, Course WB3151
Conclusion
CFS is a complex condition of considerable public health importance. CDC studies document that it affects more than one million American adults and that these people may be more severely impaired than those with cancer, endstage renal disease, heart disease or multiple sclerosis. As noted above, at least 25% of those suffering from CFS are unemployed or receiving disability because of the illness. CDC has estimated that the average family affected by CFS forgoes almost $20,000 annually in lost earnings and wages and that CFS costs the U.S. $9.1 billion per year in lost productivity (Reynolds et al., 2004). Costs related to health care utilization and disability benefits paid by Social Security and private insurers were not factored into this estimate. Therefore, the total costs of CFS to the U.S. economy are significantly higher.
Health care professionals and patients can partner to develop treatment plans that improve function and reduce symptom impact. And, through a mutual exchange of information, it may be possible to discover undetected, treatable causes of symptoms and illness consequences. This patient/health care professional partnership may produce beneficial outcomes, including an enhanced quality of life for the patient and a rewarding experience for the health care professional.
CFS is a complex illness with many symptoms that are common to other conditions. Diagnosis and management of CFS can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. Rigorous research is being conducted into its causes and treatment, and federal government agencies offer support for research and education of health care professionals and the general public. These efforts provide hope for people afflicted with this illness and professionals who care for them.
Content Source: National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases (ZVED)