Because of the hard work of MS activists across the country, approximately $17 million has been allocated to MS research under the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs over the past four years.
Emerging evidence indicates a potential link between combat services and an increased incidence of MS, with one study theorizing that exposure to neurotoxins could be an environmental trigger for MS. According to a 2003 study in the Annals of Neurology, 5,345 veterans that served in Vietnam and the first Gulf War were diagnosed with MS that was deemed "service-connected." Currently, more than 23,000 veterans with MS receive care through the Veterans Health Administration.
Over the past four years, approximately $17 million has been allocated for MS research under the CDMRP. The large number of grant proposals received each year for MS projects and the need to better understand MS and help locate a cure indicate a clear need to continue this vital stream of research funding.
Congressmen Michael Burgess, M.D. (TX-26) and Russ Carnahan (MO-3) have circulated a bipartisan Dear Colleague letter supporting $15 million for MS research in the CDMRP in Fiscal Year 2012. Click here to take action and urge your U.S. Representative to support $15 million for MS research!
