The International Research Association of Zhou Enlai, the Beijing Research Association of the New Fourth Army and the International Communication Center of Chinese Taichi Culture have jointly initiated a charity program to help improve the health of veteran soldiers who are suffering from diseases related to old age.

The program, launched in Beijing on Sept 12, plans to donate treatment devices called Huahan Zhenshen to 10,000 veterans who fought in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1937-45).

Veterans can apply to local civil affairs authorities or designated media. The medical equipment will be mailed to their families after the information on their applications has been verified.

The device, developed by Beijing Golden Huahan New Technology, is believed to be effective in helping those suffering from diabetes, Alzheimer's and cerebrovascular problems among other diseases, using electronic acupuncture and moxibustion.

"The veteran soldiers are national heroes and they deserve our respect. More importantly, we should care about their health problems," said Zhang Liping, former director of the health department of the General Logistics Department of the People's Liberation Army, at the launch ceremony.

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