Fed Panel Presses Gulf War Illness Aid

WASHINGTON - A federal panel that has spent two years reviewing studies of Gulf War (news - web sites) illnesses recommends focusing future research on the effects of the toxic substances that veterans encountered during the 1991 conflict.

That conclusion differs from the findings of a Clinton administration panel that determined that stress was the cause of the mysterious ailments afflicting thousands of Gulf War veterans.

The Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Illness said scientists are closing in on a treatment but need more government help. The committee suggested spending $60 million over the next four years to monitor and research the health of veterans and their children.

The Associated Press obtained a copy of the report Thursday, in advance of its expected release Friday by Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony Principi.

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