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Chemical sensitivity and gulf war veterans' illnesses
1Boston Environmental Hazards Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
Occupational Medicine (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|July 21, 2000
Summary
Gulf War veterans experience significant rates of chemical sensitivity (CS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) syndrome. Further research is crucial to understand and address these health concerns in veterans.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Veterans' Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Gulf War veterans report a high prevalence of health issues.
- Chemical sensitivity (CS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) syndrome are key concerns.
- Existing research uses varied criteria and measures for CS and MCS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current research on Gulf War veterans' health, focusing on CS and MCS.
- To highlight the prevalence rates of CS and MCS in this population.
- To identify the need for targeted research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Gulf War veterans' health.
- Analysis of reported prevalence rates for CS and MCS.
- Examination of differing assessment criteria and measures.
Main Results:
- CS prevalence in Department of Veterans' Affairs populations: 36-86%.
- CS prevalence in general Gulf War veteran cohorts: 0.8-20%.
- MCS prevalence: 2-6%.
Conclusions:
- Gulf War veterans exhibit notable rates of CS and MCS.
- Variability in study criteria complicates direct comparisons.
- Targeted research is essential for adequate evaluation of veterans' health concerns and MCS.
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