Men are also fibromyalgia patients

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- The chronic pain syndrome fibromyalgia, which most often occurs in women, can also affect men -- not only as patients, but as caregivers, U.S. researchers say.

"Although 10 percent to 20 percent of fibromyalgia patients are males, few scientific studies have been done in this population," Lynne Matallana of the National Fibromyalgia Association says in a statement.

The National Fibromyalgia Association and the American Pain Foundation are joining with the Men's Health Network in conducting an online survey.

"This survey will help us understand what men know, or more importantly don't know, about fibromyalgia, its symptoms, and a man's willingness to discuss any pain, discomfort, fatigue and other signs of the condition with his physician," Scott Williams of Men's Health Network says.

"Fibromyalgia has a reputation of affecting more women than men, but I am certain that the disease is far more prevalent in men than is reported in the data," Will Rowe of American Pain Foundation says. "It's a perfect disease to stay under the radar for men since men are saddled with the harmful belief that pain is something to endure and not report."