Appeals

Supporting biomedical research into M.E.

Encouraging research into the causes and treatment of M.E. is a primary strategic aim of Action for M.E.

We recently published ‘Facts and figures,’ the results of what was perhaps the biggest survey of people with M.E. in the UK. The statistics suggested that, of the 250,000 people in Britain who have M.E., 55,000 are so severely affected by the illness that they are either bed-bound or house-bound. Many are in severe pain, too ill to visit doctors or hospitals. Some are also unable to feed themselves and have to be tube-fed.

On 18^th April 2007, our Chair Trish Taylor gave the opening presentation at the first oral hearing of the Gibson Inquiry - the Parliamentary Group convened to assess the progress of scientific research on M.E. She told the committee: “There has not been a sufficient level of investment to really address the need for biological research and build the capacity for a broader range of research. New scientists need to be encouraged into the field.”

In November we are bringing together researchers from a broad range of specialisms and interests for a Research Summit on M.E. Neurologists, immunologists and physiologists feature prominently amongst those who have been invited. The event will allow researchers to develop suggestions for biomedical pilot studies – projects which will have a real chance of developing quality research proposals for submission to the Medical Research Council.

We need funds to kick-start the pilot studies. We need funds to maintain our campaign for more research into the possible causes, treatments and potential cures for M.E. We need whatever money you can afford to give.

Your donation really can help us to make a difference.