Provide names of other journalists involved.
None
List date(s) this work was published or aired.
23-Nov-11
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
An examination of the Centers for Disease Control’s failed research program on chronic fatigue syndrome, with a major focus on the agency’s flawed case definition, harmful epidemiologic approach, and financial mismanagement. Non-CDC researchers, patients, and advocacy organizations have long criticized the CDC’s chronic fatigue syndrome research program for multiple failings. Yet news organizations have given the agency a free ride on this issue–largely because the illness remains so poorly understood. The upshot of the reporting: The agency has focused major resources on investigating purported psychiatric and trauma-reltated factors using flawed research methodologies while largely dismissing the idea that infectious agents are likely involved. As a result, progress on finding answers has been off-track for years.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee minutes, many dozens of epidemiologic studies, government reports about the CDC’s chronic fatigue syndrome program.
Explain types of human sources used.
Clinicians, scientists, many ill patients.
Results:
Not applicable
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No clarifications or challenges.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Look at advisory committee meeting minutes, and read the actual studies you’re reporting about.