The Prevalence of Fibromyalgia among Women Aged 20–49 Years in Arendal, Noway

Abstract

Forseth KØ, Gran JT. The prevalence of fibromyalgia among women aged 20–49 years in Arendal, Norway. Scand J Rheumatol 1992; 21: 74–8.

In an epidemiological survey of females aged 20–49 years in Arendal, Norway, a prevalence of fibromyalgia according to the ACR criteria of 1990 of 10.5% was found. Thirty-four out of 40 women with fibromyalgia (85.0%) had, prior to the present population study, consulted a physician because of widespread pain and/or stiffness. Of these 34 women, 14 cases (41.2%) had been given a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. It is concluded that fibromyalgia represents one of the major causes of pain in the loco motor system, and unfortunately, the condition often remains undiagnosed for long periods.

Key Words:

• Fibromyalgia
• Epidemiology
• Prevalence