Wanted: Female war veterans …

The lasting effects on women who have served in war will be the subject of a new ANU study.

The research project, led by Dr Samantha Crompvoets from the ANU Medical School, will aim to shed light on many unanswered questions about the health and wellbeing of women who served in Vietnam. It will also compare their experiences to those of women who have been deployed more recently.

Dr Crompvoets said that there was little research into the potential impacts on Australian women of service in the Vietnam War, but what there was indicated there are problems that need addressing.

“While considerable research efforts have explored the issues for male Vietnam veterans, similar studies for women are scarce,” she said.

The research project – which is financed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – will aim to build a body of information on a group of people rapidly approaching retirement as well as provide health care and prevention strategies for people currently serving.

“Women now comprise more around 13 per cent of Australia’s armed forces. The increasing proportion of females that are war, peacekeeping or peacemaking veterans raises new questions about their health and well being and their use of healthcare services,” said Dr Crompvoets.

As part of the study, Dr Crompvoets is looking for ex-military health personnel from the Vietnam era onwards to interview to build up a strong picture of their experiences.

“Participants will be asked to take part in a confidential interview and perhaps a focus group with other female veterans, to discuss their experiences and perceived effects of war and peacekeeping,” she said.

To register to take part in the study by calling 6125 1310 or emailing samantha.crompvoets@anu.edu.au