Abstract:
Protocols and outcomes for the PACE trial were changed after the start of the trial. These changes made substantial differences, leading to exaggerated claims for the efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy and graded exercise therapy in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. The small, self-reported improvements in subjective measures cannot be used to say the interventions are effective, particularly in light of the absence of objective improvement. Geraghty’s criticism of the trial was reasonable and supported by the evidence.
Source: Vink M. PACE trial authors continue to ignore their own null effect. J Health Psychol. 2017 Aug;22(9):1134-1140. doi: 10.1177/1359105317703785. Epub 2017 Apr 27. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28805519