From an information sheet published by USQ and Bond University, circa March 2010

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE CFS/ME STUDY

This is a large multi-institutional study involving the University of Southern Queensland and Bond University, with Queensland Health. The research is investigating whether a biochemical marker found in blood can be used as a diagnostic for CFS/ME. The research will involve completion of a questionnaire and blood collection from healthy individuals and from people with either CFS/ME or fatigue related syndrome (FRS). We will determine if similarities exist in CFS/ME and FRS in the markers and how this differs from normal healthy individuals.

The protocol requires that:

• A volume of blood will be collected from all participants betwwen 8.00 and 10.00 am four times over a two-year period, i.e. once every six months.
• Participant's identity will be absolutely confidential and known only to the researchers.
• The results from the study will be reported only as unidentified groups and no-one will be able to be identified.
• A qualified phlebotomist will be employed to perform all blood collection procedures.
• 24 hours after blood collection participants will be called to find out how they are doing.
• After completion of the study, participants will be contacted and provided with explanatory and summary information pertaining to the results from this study.

Please note that this study is not identifying a cure or treatment for CFS/ME or FRS. It is designed to determine if improved diagnosis is possible.

If you are interested in being a participant in any of the groups or want further information please contact CRRAH at 4631 5444 or email crrah@usq.edu.au. Further information is also available on the web site http://www.usq.edu.au/crrah.