Gulf War Syndrome Law and Legal Definition
Gulf War Syndrome (GWS) is a group of symptoms reported by civilians and veterans of the first Gulf war. It is also known as "Desert Storm Diseases" or "Gulf War Illnesses. GWS affects people who were near conflicts during or downwind of a chemical weapons depot demolition, after the 1991 Gulf War.
Symptoms reported by veterans include: fatigue, loss of muscle control and muscle pains, persistent headaches, dizziness and loss of balance, memory problems, hair loss, skin problems, depression and mood disorders, respiratory problems such as cough, bronchitis, and asthma, immune system problems, chemical sensitiveness, cardiovascular symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating, and menstrual symptoms.
The following is an example of a state statute (Colorado) defining the term.
Pursuant to C.R.S. 25-4-1902, "Gulf war syndrome" means the wide range of physical and mental conditions, problems, and illnesses, including birth defects, experienced by veterans and family members that are connected with a veteran's service in the armed forces of the United States during the gulf war.
