Veterans For America

A study published today in the New England Journal of Medicine finds that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression play an important role how the physical symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) are felt by veterans of Iraq. The results of this study indicate that there is significant overlap between these psychological and neurological conditions and that the long-term effects of mTBI may not be as bad as feared. If the study’s findings are correct, those suffering from mTBI may benefit from treatments for PTSD and depression, both of which have established treatment regimens. However, as the research we mentioned yesterday indicates, untreated mTBI may still pose long-lasting problems. Given how little is known about blast-induced TBI, the fact that more and more research is being conducted will only help servicemembers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is imperative that this research continue.

The much-discussed troops cuts in Iraq may not continue past this summer, meaning that the number of US servicemembers in Iraq will be roughly what it was before the “Surge” began. Although President Bush has made no firm decision yet, sources say that he is strongly inclined towards ensuring that the gains made in Iraq are not lost; the health of the force is apparently less of a consideration. On America’s other front, the think tank that came up with the “Surge” idea is advocating that the same process be done in southern Afghanistan.

For the rest of today’s news, please visit the Our Troops Newsladder.