International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
Volume 16, Issue 4s

Fibromyalgia in Women: A Brain–Behavior–Immune Perspective on Global Prevalence, Neurobiological Plasticity, and Recovery Trajectories

Amal A. Abdulbaqi1*

1*Department of Biology, University College in Darb, Jazan University, Al-Darb, P.O. Box. 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia

Orcid: 0000-0003-2189-4966
(Corresponding Author)

ABSTRACT

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic nociplastic pain marked by widespread pain, persistent fatigue, sleep disruption, and cognitive difficulties. Current evidence suggests that its pathophysiology is largely driven by central nervous system dysfunction, with altered pain processing and impaired communication across brain–behavior–immune networks. FM affects women disproportionately. Worldwide prevalence estimates vary, ranging from 0.2% to 6.6% in the general population and from 2.4% to 6.8% among women. Longitudinal studies highlight considerable variability in clinical course, with 20–47% of patients no longer meeting diagnostic criteria within one to two years.

Keywords: Fibromyalgia; Nociplastic pain; Neuroimmune interaction; Central sensitization; Women's health; Neuroplasticity

How to cite this article: Abdulbaqi AA, Fibromyalgia in Women: A Brain–Behavior–Immune Perspective on Global Prevalence, Neurobiological Plasticity, and Recovery Trajectories. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(4s): 861-865; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.4s.99

Source of support: Nil

Conflict of interest: None