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Unloading the trunk: neurasthenia, CFS and race

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  • Luthra, A.
  • Wessely, S.

Abstract

The aetiologies of both chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and its predecessor neurasthenia, have been linked to technological advances in 'developed' countries. This paper discusses how this has led to a form of race thinking within discussions about fatigue which has persisted for more than a century. We review the historical development of this race thinking from neurasthenia to CFS and describe how it is manifested in both the lay- and medical literature. We also review the epidemiological literature on CFS and ethnicity to better understand the relatively low percentage of non-white patients seen in tertiary referral clinics for CFS. The aim of this paper is to act as a starting point for a debate on race and CFS .

Suggested Citation

  • Luthra, A. & Wessely, S., 2004. "Unloading the trunk: neurasthenia, CFS and race," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 58(11), pages 2363-2369, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:58:y:2004:i:11:p:2363-2369
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