VA Continues Gulf War Research, Cancels Contract with UTSW Medical Center

[jody]

VA Continues Gulf War Research, Cancels Contract with UTSW Medical Center (Dept. of Veterans Affairs)

WASHINGTON – Citing persistent noncompliance and numerous performance deficiencies, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will not exercise the third year of a five-year, $75 million contract with the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSWMC) to perform research into Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses (GWVI).

“Research into the illnesses suffered by Gulf War Veterans remains a priority for VA,” said Dr. Gerald M. Cross, VA’s Acting Under Secretary for Health.

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The decision not to continue the contract means VA’s research program will be able to redirect funds to support additional research into GWVI. In 2010, that research will include a genomic study to identify susceptibility factors and markers of GWVI; studies of similarities and differences with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia; studies of new diagnostic tests; identification of sub-populations of ill Gulf War Veterans; and studies of potential new treatments.

The redirected funding for these new VA research initiatives will be in addition to the substantial support VA already provides for GWVI research--$7 million in 2008 and $4.8 million so far in 2009.

Gee, I'm happy that our presidents and congress can spare $7 million a year to study GWVI that has devastated the lives of tens of thousands veterans who volunteered to serve their country.

:puke: on recent presidents and congresses.