Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic condition marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Although its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood, psychological stress and lifestyle factors are thought to play a key role in symptom development and severity. Academic environments, often characterised by high workloads and sustained stress, may therefore represent a setting where fibromyalgia symptoms are particularly prevalent.
A new cross-sectional study conducted at Umm Al Qura University in Saudi Arabia offers insight into the burden of fibromyalgia symptoms among students and faculty, while also identifying key demographic, psychological, and behavioural predictors.
One in Seven Meet Fibromyalgia Criteria
The study surveyed 580 members of the university community using validated assessment tools, including the Fibromyalgia Survey Diagnostic Criteria and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale. Overall, 14.1% of participants met the criteria for fibromyalgia, highlighting a substantial symptom burden within the academic population. In parallel, anxiety symptoms were reported by 22.1% of respondents.
Analysis revealed that fibromyalgia symptoms were not evenly distributed across the population. Higher prevalence was observed in individuals aged 25 years or older, women, and those working as faculty or employees rather than students. A family history of fibromyalgia also increased the likelihood of symptoms, suggesting a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental triggers.
Anxiety Emerges as a Key Predictor
Among all associated factors, anxiety stood out as the strongest predictor of fibromyalgia symptoms. Participants with anxiety were more than eight times more likely to meet fibromyalgia criteria compared with those without anxiety, even after adjusting for other variables. This striking association underscores the close interplay between psychological distress and chronic pain syndromes.
Lifestyle factors also played a significant role. Lack of regular weekly exercise and frequent use of pain relief medications were both associated with higher rates of fibromyalgia symptoms. These findings point to potentially modifiable behaviours that could be targeted through preventive strategies.
Implications for Universities and Wellbeing
The authors emphasise that the high prevalence of fibromyalgia symptoms in this academic setting warrants greater attention from university health services. Early screening for anxiety and chronic pain symptoms, alongside initiatives that promote physical activity and stress management, could help reduce long-term morbidity.
By implementing campus-wide mental health programmes, raising awareness of fibromyalgia, and offering personalised support for high-risk individuals, academic institutions may be well placed to intervene early. Such approaches could not only improve individual wellbeing but also support productivity and quality of life across the university community.
Reference
Alshareef MH et al. Prevalence and predictors of fibromyalgia symptoms in an academic setting: a cross-sectional study. BMC Rheumatol. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s41927-025-00610-y.
