Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) affects between one and four million Americans. CFS, also known as chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS), is a debilitating and complex illness that results in profound fatigue and a number of other chronic symptoms that can be challenging to diagnose and treat. These challenges often leave both patients and healthcare providers locked in a cycle of frustration.

The CDC, together with The CFIDS Association of America, has launched a national public health education campaign to increase understanding of CFS among individuals experiencing symptoms of the illness, the general public, and healthcare professionals. As part of that campaign, the CFIDS Association will bring a national traveling photo exhibit called "The Faces of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" to Westfield North County Fair in Escondido from October 26, 2009, to November 1, 2009. This exhibit features the portraits (shot by celebrity photographer George Lange) and stories of CFS patients, family members, and healthcare professionals.

Healthcare providers can click here to find an array of tools to enable them to communicate with, confidently diagnosis, and capably treat patients with CFS. Offerings include the CFS Toolkit for Healthcare Professionals that includes quick-read fact sheets from the CDC.

The toolkit and other resources for medical professionals and patients are free of charge and available in print or online. Professionals are encouraged to request or download copies for themselves and colleagues, residents, students, and patients by visiting the two websites listed above or emailing meded@cfids.org, or calling the CFIDS Association at (704) 364-0016.