Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has been urged to recognize Gulf War illnesses as service-connected conditions that qualify for disability payments and health care. This follows the CDC's formal acknowledgment of Gulf War illness as a medical condition. The request comes amidst a government shutdown, affecting the VA's response time.
Key Facts
- Gulf War illness includes symptoms like fatigue, pain, cognitive issues, skin rashes, and diarrhea.
- The CDC formally recognized Gulf War illness this month.
- A call has been made for the VA to classify Gulf War illness for disability benefits.
- Over 700,000 troops served in the Gulf War, and about one-third reported unexplained symptoms.
- Potential causes include exposure to chemicals, stress disorders, and contact with toxic substances.
- Ronald Brown from Vietnam Veterans of America is advocating for this classification.
- The VA's action is delayed due to the current government shutdown.
- Veterans have experienced confusion due to the lack of an official illness classification until now.
