Related research

Vietnam Veterans Health Study

In September 2006, the Department released the first three volumes of the Australian Vietnam Veterans’ Mortality and Cancer Incidence studies, the first cancer incidence study of Vietnam’ veterans from all three service branches. The studies have found Vietnam veterans have a lower mortality rate compared to the general Australian population, but a higher than expected incidence of cancer and cancer mortality. The National Service study, which investigated only those deemed fit for military service, indicated that the overall mortality, suicide and the incidence of cancer and cancer related deaths was higher in veterans who served in Vietnam than in their colleagues who did not. For more information click the link below.

Mortality and Cancer Incidence in Australian Vietnam Veterans Studies

Feasibility Study

The families of people involved in various military deployments have expressed concern about the impact of those deployments. The incidence of chronic health conditions in the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans is one area of concern.

To better understand the impact that a person’s service and deployment has on the health of their family members, DVA examined the feasibility of a study into the health of children of Vietnam veterans. The feasibility study concluded that a study into the health of the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans was feasible.

To read the Feasibility Study, please click the link below.

The feasibility of a study into the health of the children of Vietnam veterans (PDF 535kb)

Advisory Panel on Intergenerational Effects (APIE)

The Advisory Panel on Intergenerational Effects (APIE) is a cross-disciplinary expert group appointed to advise the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) on the effects of a parent’s military service on their children and family.

The establishment of APIE recognises that military service and deployment has the potential to impact on the physical, mental and social functioning of veterans and their families, both at the individual and family level.

APIE aims to promote and improve understanding of intergenerational research, both from Australian and international sources, and to improve knowledge of the potential effects of military service and deployment across generations.

APIE will advise DVA on scientific developments regarding intergenerational effects of military service. The panel will also conduct peer reviews of relevant research and report on pertinent findings, allowing DVA to respond promptly to any identifiable intergenerational health issues.

Any enquiries related to APIE should be directed to research@dva.gov.au or the Health Studies enquiry line 1800 502 302.

Female Vietnam Veterans Health Register

The Female Vietnam Veterans Health Register, commissioned as part of the Government’s response to the Vietnam Veterans Health Study in 2000, lists all Australian women who participated in the Vietnam War. The register was developed and is maintained by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, which also undertakes an annual mail-out to registrants to ensure the register’s accuracy. For more information on the register click the link below.

Female Vietnam Veteran and Civilian Health Register