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In this editorial, the author summarizes the main findings
of the above articles which appeared in the same issue. He comments upon
their strengths and limitations. He also summarizes some of the other
recently published studies related to mortality, hospitalization, and
the frequency of symptoms among GW veterans. The author mentions the late-breaking
announcement by the government of sarin release during destruction of
Iraqi bunkers, and the controversy over the possibility of chronic effects
of low dose exposures to nerve agents. He emphasizes the need for physicians
to provide counseling, support, and symptomatic treatment for GW veterans.
He notes that a diagnosis of stress-related disorder must await the exclusion
of treatable physical factors, but he also urges recognition of the frequent
occurrence of stress-related illnesses such as hypertension, fibromyalgia,
and chronic fatigue and appropriate management. He mentions the lessons
learned which include prevention, good baseline examinations of troops,
prevention of stress-related disorders, and the need to provide all of
the care owed by the nation to the veterans who have generously and gallantly
served. |
