Objective:

To examine the detection rate of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in secondary school students in Shaanxi Province and its association with physical fitness test outcomes.

Approach:

• Survey Methodology: A survey involving the distribution of CFS questionnaires and collection of physical fitness test data was conducted among students from 25 secondary schools, analyzing 8,840 valid questionnaires.
• Statistical Analysis: Detection rates for CFS and chronic fatigue (CF) were determined, and gender and year group variances were assessed using chi-square tests. Correlation analyses evaluated the relationship between CFS and physical fitness scores.

Key Findings:

• Overall CFS detection rate was 2.059%, with 1.903% for males and 2.234% for females, showing no significant gender difference (χ2 = 1.210, p = 0.546).
• CFS detection rate increased from 1.012% in grade 7 to 3.728% in cram schools, with significant differences across grade groups (χ2 = 24.082, p = 0.020).
• Weak to moderate negative correlations were found between CFS severity and endurance running performance in boys (τ = −0.261, p < 0.001) and girls (τ = −0.385, p < 0.001).
• Female students in the CFS group had significantly lower vital capacity compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

Interpretation:

CFS-like symptoms among secondary school students in Shaanxi Province are prevalent and associated with poorer physical fitness, particularly in endurance running.

Limitations:

• The study is limited to a specific geographic area and may not be generalizable to other regions.
• The reliance on self-reported questionnaires may introduce bias in the detection of CFS.

Conclusion:

CFS symptoms in secondary school students are linked to lower physical fitness performance, particularly as detection rates increase with grade level.