Paint Fumes Linked to Gulf-War Syndrome?

0 Comments | Insight on the News, March 27, 2000 | by John Elvin

The Department of Defense, or DoD, has released an environmental-exposure report on chemical-agent-resistant coating, or CARC, paint fumes, considered a possible culprit in illnesses experienced by those who served in the Persian Gulf War. "Experts have determined that fewer than 500 people were involved in painting operations during the gulf war, including about 200 soldiers of the 325th Maintenance Company [Florida National Guard]," DoD said, concluding that CARC paint exposure is "a limited problem." Complaints about illnesses referred to as gulf-war syndrome have come from a broad group of military personnel, including members of all services involved in the operation, as well as personnel of other countries involved as allies.

CARC paint was used to provide desert camouflage for several thousand vehicles and other pieces of equipment. Because of the rush to get the equipment overseas, some of the work was performed without proper protective gear. Although there are some short- and long-term health problems possible for those working directly with CARC paint as a spray, DoD found there are no hazards in routine exposure once the paint is dry.

Somewhat ironically, the special paint suspected by some as a possible contributor to gulf-war syndrome is used because it is "resistant to a variety of chemicals and solvents and has a unique quality for preventing chemical-warfare agents, such as blister and nerve agents, from penetrating into the coating," according to DoD.

Veterans of the conflict may obtain a free, in-depth medical examination by calling DoD's Clinical Evaluation Program, (800) 796-9699, or the Veterans Administration Persian Gulf Registry, 1-800-PGWVETS. A site on the Internet featuring DoD's collection of information related to gulf-war syndrome can be found at www.gulflink.osd.mil.