VA Doubles Gulf War Research Funding
NEWS RELEASE
from Department of Veterans Affairs:
VA Doubles Gulf War Research Funding
October 30, 2002
WASHINGTON - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to make available
up to $20 million for research into Gulf War illnesses during fiscal year
2004, a figure twice the amount spent by VA in any previous year.
The announcement, made by VA Deputy Secretary Dr. Leo S. Mackay Jr.,
highlighted a two-day meeting of VA's Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War
Veterans Illnesses. The decision was, in part, a response to a committee
report in June concerning areas of research that need further study.
"We want the best researchers and the best ideas brought to bear on this
long-standing problem," Mackay said. "Research into Gulf War illnesses is an
area ripe for important discoveries."
Studies by researchers from VA and the private sector have found evidence of
a possible neurological basis for the complaints of some veterans.
The committee, commissioned last January by VA Secretary Anthony Principi and
chaired by James Binns, a Vietnam veteran, includes scientists, business
people, Gulf War veterans and veterans advocates. Some members have been
critical of previous government efforts to diagnose, treat and research the
medical problems of some veterans.
"This is a huge occasion for our work," said Binns. "This is tangible
evidence that this administration is different and committed to finding
answers."
In addition to the increase in funding, VA plans to create a special center
dedicated to medical imaging technologies. These technologies are important
to understanding Gulf War illnesses as well as other conditions important to
veterans.
To date, the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services and VA have
spent $213 million on 224 research projects to answer the questions
surrounding Gulf War illnesses.
"Science is finally beginning to unravel the mysteries of Gulf War illnesses.
And finally, there is reason for hope," Mackay said.
Sempers,
Roger
