'Icelandic Disease' (benign myalgic encephalomyelitis) also known as 'ME' or chronic fatigue syndrome or 'Royal Free Disease'

Papers relating to the condition now generally known as ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In 1976 the Patients Association set up a research group to look into the disease which was then commonly known as 'Icelandic Disease' or 'Royal Free Disease' because of the outbreaks in those particular places.

The Patients Association's Iceland Disease Group was set up to identify sufferers, confirm that they have the illness and reassure them that it is organic in nature and not psychological. They also aimed to put sufferers in contact with one another for mutual support and exchange of information. The group also wanted to further research into the illness and disseminate information about it to GPs, specialists and the public at large. They put together an information leaflet for sufferers and doctors.

1976-1977

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