New studies by the National Institutes of Health have failed to find evidence of brain injury in scans or blood markers of diplomats and spies who suffered symptoms of Havana syndrome, according to recent reports. These findings support the conclusions of U.S. intelligence agencies that the mysterious health incidents are not the result of a hostile foreign power.
The debilitating symptoms associated with Havana syndrome, such as dizziness and migraines, have puzzled experts for years. However, the latest studies suggest that environmental factors, existing medical conditions, or stress may be more likely explanations for the symptoms.
While the lead scientist on one of the studies acknowledged that the research was not designed to pinpoint a cause, the results align with previous determinations made by intelligence analysts. On the other hand, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania had previously found differences in brain scans of individuals with Havana syndrome symptoms compared to a control group.
Dr. David Relman, a scientist with access to classified files on the cases, criticized the new studies, suggesting that brain injuries can be challenging to detect with current technology. He emphasized that the absence of evidence in the scans does not rule out the possibility of an external force, such as a directed energy device, causing the injuries.
The incidents of Havana syndrome first emerged in 2016 and 2017 in Havana, later spreading to other locations. The Biden administration has pledged to improve healthcare for those affected and investigate the root cause of the symptoms.
Despite the N.I.H. studies not definitively identifying a cause, they have sparked controversy among experts and individuals suffering from Havana syndrome. Some have expressed concerns about the study’s methodology and ethical implications, particularly regarding patient consent and potential misuse of the findings by intelligence agencies.
As the debate continues, the search for answers to the perplexing Havana syndrome mystery remains ongoing, with conflicting perspectives on the underlying cause of the symptoms.
