Result of the Gibson Inquiry

The Gibson Inquiry is a Parliamentary Group on Scientific Research into Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). In November 2006, after almost a year it released its Inquiry Report: “Inquiry into the status of CFS/ME and research into causes and treatment”.

The Gibson Inquiry argues that we must invest massively in research into biomedical models of this illness. It is still unclear whether CFS/ME is one illness with a spectrum of severity or whether it is two separate illnesses. The most severely affected are least affected by the existing symptomatic treatments. And indeed many of the most severely affected find GET massively worsens their condition. Researching the possibility of sub groups is essential so sufferers can get the best treatment.

NICE has just finished consulting on their draft guidelines for treating CFS/ME. These guidelines have been widely criticised by patient groups and by the APPG on ME. Chair Des Turner described them in a meeting last week as ‘not fit for man nor beast’ Dr Ian Gibson MP of the Inquiry described them as ‘useless’.

Dr Ian Gibson MP Chair of the Inquiry says:

“At last there is an Inquiry which identifies the seriousness of CFS/ME. For too long the patient voice has been left out of the debate. I hope that our Inquiry will highlight the difficult issues surrounding this illness and the urgent need further research. There is a wealth of published and evidence based research on this subject, some in the UK but mostly internationally. Canada and the US are leaving us way behind on this issue. We are a Group on ME and even in our group there has been conflicting opinions on the evidence. One thing is sure, we have a fantastic opportunity here with our Inquiry and the new NICE guideline to really begin to recognise this illness for what it is to look for causes and new treatments and to really build consensus amongst doctors and patient groups”

For further information on the Inquiry visit their website or there is a summary of their report available on the ME Action UK website.

[Source: Gibson Inquiry press release 26 Nov. 2006]