War on Iraq will Result in Disabilities

As U.S. President George W. Bush prepares to wage war on Iraq, we wonder if he and his allies are also prepared to accept responsibility for the increased incidence of disability that will inevitably result.

During a war, disabilities arise from more than direct combat injuries. A 2001 report by the Comprehensive Disabled Afghans Program points out that, during a war, "the incidence of disability will increase significantly not only due to obvious conflict-related injuries but also due to poor nutrition and closure of the few health facilities that have once been operating. These effects are particularly noticeable among the very young and the elderly."

The U.S. could learn from its own history. The Vietnam War resulted in such a high incidence of disability among American veterans that a strong lobby voice was created that would not have otherwise existed, leading to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Unfortunately for those who live in Iraq, however, it is highly unlikely that even large numbers of war casualties will have the time and energy to advocate successfully for an Iraqis with Disabilities Act. People disabled directly and indirectly by a war on The Middle East will probably be more focused on survival.

As the Afghan report states, in the aftermath of conflict, "If you are disabled, each day can present a life and death situation."