The Bloody Truth: Uncovering Brain Injuries in the Military

The Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) use of blood tests to detect brain injuries from weapon blasts is a long-overdue acknowledgment of the devastating effects of repetitive low-level blast exposure on military personnel. For years, veterans have been sounding the alarm about the lack of action on this critical issue.

A recent study follows complaints from former service members who have spoken out about the debilitating effects of blast trauma. Retired army lieutenant colonel Paul Scanlan’s words are haunting: “From Afghanistan, there are guys now from that time who have committed suicide… And not just suicides. Families are being destroyed because of the effect it’s having.” These aren’t isolated incidents; they’re a symptom of a broader issue that has been swept under the rug for far too long.

The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlighted the alarming rate at which traumatic brain injuries are linked to death by suicide in veteran and civilian populations. Despite this stark warning, the ADF has struggled to provide adequate support and compensation to those affected.

Researchers hope to better understand how repeated, low-level blast exposures impact brain health across a military career through the study. By cross-referencing blast pressure readings with blood tests and neurological data, they aim to fill a significant knowledge gap in current research on high-level blast events. This is crucial, as previous studies have failed to connect the dots between blast pressure and actual brain injury.

The ADF’s response to this crisis has been woefully inadequate. The fact that researchers only just begun to investigate this area raises questions about the true priority placed on the health and wellbeing of military personnel. As veterans’ advocate Paul Scanlan noted, “I think they deserve a lot better.”

The study focuses on the army but will also extend to the navy and air force after four years. It’s unclear why it will take so long to conduct this research – time that could be spent implementing effective policy changes and providing necessary support to those affected.

Traumatic brain injuries have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only individuals but also families, relationships, and communities. As we watch this critical research unfold, policymakers must ask: what actions will they take with this newfound knowledge? Will they finally address the root causes of this crisis, or will they continue to pay lip service to those affected?

The answer lies in the blood – literally. By tracking subtle changes in brain chemistry and function caused by blast trauma, researchers hope to build a stronger case for policy change. It’s time for the ADF to take responsibility for its part in perpetuating this crisis and work towards creating a safer, more supportive environment for military personnel.

Every minute counts when it comes to addressing the devastating effects of traumatic brain injuries on our veterans. It’s time to get real about the true cost of war and take concrete steps towards healing the wounds inflicted by blast trauma.