How many men have this disease?

I've seen a figure that says only 6% of cases are men. Are there any numbers to go along with that statement?

The figures I have seen are 1 in 8 men, but estimates go as high as 30% of fibromyalgia sufferers being men.

Men are more likely to be misdiagnosed or to experience a longer period of time before they are diagnosed. Fibromyalgia is thought of as a woman's disease primarily, so there is often a low index of suspicion when men present with symptoms consistent with fibromyalgia.

Part of the problem is that men may downplay their symptoms due to societal perceptions. They may not want to appear to others to be "weak". This may lead to an underreporting of pain and other symptoms. Many doctors and health professionals think of fibromyalgia as a woman's disease as well, and may be less likely to consider fibromyalgia in their differential, even when a man exhibits the classic symptoms.

There needs to be a greater awareness that this condition affects others, not just men but children and the elderly as well. Thankfully, there is a lot of interest in this condition at present; hopefully, researchers will begin to explore the issue of men with fibromyalgia a little more, including differences in symptoms and presentation.

I hope you continue to post here; you are indeed a rare specimen! Other men need to know that there are others out there who can relate.
Have a great day!