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veterans, the committee developed an approach to evaluating treatments that could be consistently applied across diagnoses. Recommendations for treatment are based on efficacy as demonstrated through RCTs, the highest level of evidence available.

Much has yet to be learned about ways to prevent, or at least mitigate, health problems associated with deployment. While research into consequences of war-related illnesses and deployment-related health effects proceeds, we are faced with the task of providing effective treatments to those who are suffering from difficult-to-diagnose, ill-defined, or unexplained illnesses. It is hoped that the work of this committee will contribute to the understanding and treatment of such health problems.