Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Systemic Lupus Erythermatosis is most prominent
in females, however, it appears (anecdotally) in male Vietnam Veterans
to a degree much higher than one sees this disease in males who did not
serve in Vietnam.
There are many possible reason for this.
Some examples of this are chemical exposure, exposure to certain viruses,
exposure to experimental medicines and/or the testosterone limiting effects
of Dioxin (Agent Orange). Whatever the reason, in July of 1988, congress
mandated that Lupus (SLE) be service connected if symptomatic to a compensable
degree within one year of discharge; to be diagnosed within a reasonable
period of time. The VA would appear reluctant to diagnose and/or
compensate for this disease.
Lupus symptoms include fatigue, dizziness,
short term memory loss, photo sensitivity, joint pain, muscle pain, skin
rashes, nausea, bloating, a general feeling of illness and many others.
It can involve major organs.
We are asking that you please fill out
the
enclosed survey and return to us as soon as possible. If you
know of any Vietnam or Gulf War vets that are suffering from Lupus, please
pass this survey along to them.
If you have any questions about Lupus,
please contact your physician or the American Lupus Association.
In Brotherhood and Sisterhood,
Al DiPanfilis
Al DiPanfilis
VVA Chapter 266
More links Lupus
info
.
Please take a moment to
take the
Lupus
Online Survery