A logistic regression analysis of risk factors in ME/CFS pathogenesis.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex disease, whose exact cause remains unclear. A wide range of risk factors has been proposed that helps understanding potential disease pathogenesis. However, there is little consistency for many risk factor associations, thus we undertook an exploratory study of risk factors using data from the UK ME/CFS Biobank participants. We report on risk factor associations in ME/CFS compared with multiple sclerosis participants and healthy controls. METHODS:This was a cross-sectional study of 269 people with ME/CFS, including 214 with mild/moderate and 55 with severe symptoms, 74 people with multiple sclerosis (MS), and 134 healthy controls, who were recruited from primary and secondary health services. Data were collected from participants using a standardised written questionnaire. Data analyses consisted of univariate and multivariable regression analysis (by levels of proximity to disease onset). RESULTS:A history of frequent colds (OR?=?8.26, P <=?0.001) and infections (OR?=?25.5, P =?0.015) before onset were the strongest factors associated with a higher risk of ME/CFS compared to healthy controls. Being single (OR?=?4.41, P <=?0.001), having lower income (OR?=?3.71, P <=?0.001), and a family history of anxiety is associated with a higher risk of ME/CFS compared to healthy controls only (OR?=?3.77, P?

SUBMITTER: Lacerda EM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6839177 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature