Is GERD a Gulf War Presumptive?
The Gulf War, which took place from August 1990 to February 1991, was a military conflict fought between Iraq and a coalition of 34 nations led by the United States. The war was sparked by Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, and it resulted in the liberation of Kuwait and the defeat of Iraq.
What is GERD?
GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic condition in which the stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Is GERD a Gulf War Presumptive?
The short answer is yes, GERD is considered a Gulf War presumptive condition. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) added GERD to the list of presumptive conditions for Gulf War veterans. This means that veterans who served in the Gulf War and have been diagnosed with GERD are presumed to have been exposed to a toxin or other environmental factor during their service that caused their condition.
Why is GERD a Gulf War Presumptive Condition?
There are several reasons why GERD is considered a Gulf War presumptive condition. One reason is that the war was fought in a hot and dusty environment, which can exacerbate symptoms of GERD. Additionally, the war involved the use of certain chemicals and pesticides, such as sarin and VX, which have been linked to GERD.
Studies Supporting the Link between GERD and Gulf War Service
Several studies have found a link between Gulf War service and an increased risk of developing GERD. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that Gulf War veterans were more likely to develop GERD than non-veterans. Another study published in the Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery found that Gulf War veterans with GERD were more likely to have been exposed to certain chemicals and pesticides during their service.
VA Benefits for Gulf War Veterans with GERD
Gulf War veterans with GERD may be eligible for VA benefits, including disability compensation and medical care. To qualify for these benefits, veterans must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- Serving in the Gulf War
- Being diagnosed with GERD
- Having symptoms of GERD that began during or shortly after their service
- Having a medical professional document their symptoms and diagnosis
Table: VA Benefits for Gulf War Veterans with GERD
| Benefit | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Disability Compensation | Serving in the Gulf War, diagnosed with GERD, and having symptoms that began during or shortly after service |
| Medical Care | Serving in the Gulf War, diagnosed with GERD, and having symptoms that began during or shortly after service |
| Special Monthly Compensation | Serving in the Gulf War, diagnosed with GERD, and having symptoms that are severe enough to require special care |
Conclusion
In conclusion, GERD is a Gulf War presumptive condition, and Gulf War veterans who have been diagnosed with GERD may be eligible for VA benefits. The link between GERD and Gulf War service is supported by several studies, and the VA has established eligibility criteria for veterans to receive benefits. If you are a Gulf War veteran with GERD, it is important to consult with a medical professional and to contact the VA to determine your eligibility for benefits.
Additional Resources
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses
- National Gulf War Resource Center: GERD and the Gulf War
- American Gastroenterological Association: GERD and the Gulf War
Bullets List:
- GERD is a chronic condition characterized by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus
- The Gulf War was fought in a hot and dusty environment, which can exacerbate symptoms of GERD
- The war involved the use of certain chemicals and pesticides, which have been linked to GERD
- Several studies have found a link between Gulf War service and an increased risk of developing GERD
- Gulf War veterans with GERD may be eligible for VA benefits, including disability compensation and medical care
- To qualify for VA benefits, veterans must meet certain eligibility criteria, including serving in the Gulf War, being diagnosed with GERD, and having symptoms that began during or shortly after their service
