Thank you very much for the invitation. I have short introduction so your members might know what my background is, and then I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have for me.
My name is Dr. Melissa McDiarmid. I'm a physician with training and specialization in internal medicine, occupational medicine, and clinical toxicology. Since 1997 I've been the medical director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' surveillance program for Gulf War veterans exposed to depleted uranium. As you mentioned, I've also inherited another responsibility, which is to direct a surveillance program for veterans who are victims of IED injuries and have toxic-embedded fragments in their bodies.
Our team here has completed nine biennial surveillance assessments of a group of 84 Gulf War I and OIF veterans who have been exposed to depleted uranium, and we've extensively published our findings. In February of last year, the Scientific Advisory Committee on Veterans' Health, convened by your Minister of Veterans Affairs, requested a briefing about our work here in Baltimore, which I provided at that time. I received a few follow-up e-mail requests for clarification of the original briefing.
About a month ago, I received a request to provide my comments about the scientific advisory committee's report entitled, “Depleted Uranium and Canadian Veterans: A Review of Potential Exposure and Health Effects”. Here's the punchline: overall, I agree with the findings of your committee. I believe their review of the evidence was complete and well described. As well, I agree with your final point, that there are many veterans suffering from persistent symptoms following deployment which, though unlikely to be linked to DU exposure, nevertheless can and should be effectively treated by your veterans health system.
I'd be happy to answer any specific questions your members have of me.