Beth Dobbin, a former British sprinter, has written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, advocating for increased funding for ME research. Dobbin, who competed in the Tokyo Olympics, revealed her diagnosis of ME, a chronic condition causing severe fatigue and other symptoms. She highlighted the lack of government funding and approved treatments for ME, affecting over 400,000 people in the UK.

Dobbin, now bedbound for 22 hours daily, emphasized the debilitating nature of ME, which can leave patients unable to work or care for themselves. She pointed out the lack of NHS provisions for severe ME patients and the reliance on off-label medication. Dobbin hopes increased research funding will lead to better treatments and reduce the welfare bill. Read more racing coverage.

The Prime Minister has pledged to reduce the UK's welfare bill, which is forecast to rise to £408.6bn by 2030-31. Dobbin's letter to Burnham underscores the urgent need for more research into ME, a condition that severely impacts the lives of many in the UK. Related: Olympic Sprinter Beth Dobbin Battles ME, Speaks Out Despite Health Risks.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from BBC Sport Athletics. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.