https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/0...replein-voor-vergeten-slachtoffers-chronisch/
Automatic translation:
Action in Brussels for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: "Doctors often think it is all in the mind"
To mark World ME/CFS Day, an awareness campaign for the forgotten disease 'myalgic encephalomyelitis' or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) took place on Place Brouckère in Brussels. The organizers demand better care and more scientific research.
BRUZZ
Sat May 11 16:59
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a chronic disease that causes extreme exhaustion, pain and cognitive impairment. The disease usually occurs after an infection and is described by patients as a perpetual flu.
In Belgium, an estimated 20,000 to 45,000 patients suffer from ME/CFS, but the cause of the disease is unknown and there is no effective treatment yet. With a campaign in which dozens of empty shoes were displayed, symbolizing the millions of patients who have disappeared from public life worldwide due to the disease, the non-profit organization 12ME is now drawing attention to their situation.
"There is a need for better training of healthcare providers and doctors in Belgium," says chairman Kristien De Vos. "Because there is not yet a clear medical test for ME/CFS, doctors still too often think that the condition is all in their head. As a result, the disease is treated incorrectly and patients encounter stigma and misunderstanding."
12ME therefore advocates better care and more scientific research into the disease. Germany and the Netherlands have now drawn up a research program following a European resolution from 2020, but Belgium is still lagging behind.
