Geographical Pattern Eyed in 1991 Gulf War Cases of ALS

Environmental link to chemical rockets destroyed at one Iraq site focus of investigations

FRIDAY, July 25 (HealthDay News) — Researchers are looking into possible geographical reasons why 1991 Gulf War veterans have developed the fatal neurological disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at twice the rate of the general population.

Of the 135 diagnosed Gulf Vet cases of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, in the first 11 years after the war, only three had a family history of the disease. Researchers speculate this may indicate an environmental cause.

ALS causes cellular degeneration in the central nervous system. Its cause is unknown.

Geographical Pattern Eyed in 1991 Gulf War Cases of ALS