CED-78-158 Published: Aug 16, 1978. Publicly Released: Aug 16, 1978.
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Highlights
Concerns have been expressed about the Department of Defense's (DOD) use of Agent Orange, a herbicide, in Vietnam because it contains the highly toxic contaminant dioxin. From August 1965 to 1971, DOD sprayed 11.22 million gallons of Agent Orange in Vietnam, with about 3 gallons per acre sprayed undiluted. DOD has little information available on the number or extent of personnel exposure to herbicides in Vietnam. However, aircraft crews involved in spraying missions were more likely to have been exposed than were others, and their records could possibly be traced. Early DOD research on herbicide use in Vietnam was concerned with effectiveness more than with health effects. Later DOD ecological studies failed to demonstrate long-term health effects, but the National Academy of Sciences believed that further studies were needed. DOD does not have plans for epidemiological studies related to herbicide uses in Vietnam.
Full Report
As a seasoned expert in the field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion surrounding the report coded CED-78-158, published on August 16, 1978, by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). My extensive background allows me to navigate through the intricate details of the document and shed light on various critical concepts addressed within.
The report primarily delves into concerns regarding the Department of Defense's (DOD) use of Agent Orange, a herbicide, in Vietnam during the period from August 1965 to 1971. The herbicide contains the highly toxic contaminant dioxin, and the document expresses apprehensions about its impact on military personnel and the environment.
Here are key concepts and areas covered in the report:
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Agent Orange Usage in Vietnam:
- The report indicates that DOD sprayed a substantial amount of Agent Orange in Vietnam, totaling 11.22 million gallons from 1965 to 1971.
- Notably, approximately 3 gallons per acre of Agent Orange were sprayed undiluted during this period.
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Personnel Exposure:
- DOD has limited information on the number or extent of personnel exposure to herbicides in Vietnam.
- Aircraft crews involved in spraying missions were identified as more likely to have been exposed compared to others.
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Health Concerns and Research:
- Early DOD research focused on the effectiveness of herbicides rather than their potential health effects.
- Later ecological studies by DOD failed to demonstrate long-term health effects, but the National Academy of Sciences recommended further studies.
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Epidemiological Studies:
- The report highlights that DOD lacks plans for epidemiological studies related to herbicide use in Vietnam, raising concerns about the long-term health implications for those exposed.
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GAO Recommendations:
- The GAO report likely provides recommendations or considerations regarding the DOD's use of Agent Orange in Vietnam. Unfortunately, specific details about these recommendations are not provided in the provided text snippet.
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Contact Information:
- Chuck Young, the Managing Director, is listed as a point of contact for further inquiries regarding the report. His email is youngc1@gao.gov, and the phone number is (202) 512-4800.
In conclusion, the document underscores the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the use of Agent Orange by the Department of Defense during the Vietnam War, emphasizing the need for further research and attention to potential health hazards. If there are specific details or questions you would like me to elaborate on, please feel free to ask.
