What is the Colon Polyps VA Rating?

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VA disability ratings for colon polyps can range from 0% to 100%, depending on the predominant disability, the severity of symptoms, and how they impact your work, life, and social functioning, to include functional impact.

While colon polyps themselves do not typically receive a standalone rating, they are often evaluated as part of a broader gastrointestinal condition or related to other medical issues, such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

In many cases, the VA will assign a disability rating based on the symptoms and complications caused by colon polyps.

For example, if untreated, colon polyps can develop into more serious health concerns, including colon cancer, which would then significantly impact your VA disability rating.

Depending on the symptoms—such as pain, bowel obstruction, or surgery to remove the polyps—the VA may evaluate your condition under specific diagnostic codes related to gastrointestinal disorders or neoplasms.

Okay, let’s take a closer look at how the VA rates colon polyps and related conditions for disability benefits, and the key factors that can impact your final rating.

Summary of Key Points

• VA Ratings for Colon Polyps Range from 0% to 100%: The rating depends on the severity of symptoms, predominant disability (rated under multiple Diagnostic Codes), and how it affects the veteran’s daily life and ability to function, with higher ratings given for more severe symptoms and complications.

• Colon Polyps are Often Rated as Part of Other Conditions: While colon polyps don’t typically receive a standalone rating, they are often evaluated in connection with broader gastrointestinal conditions such as Peritoneal Adhesions (DC 7301), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (DC 7319), Ulcerative Colitis (DC 7323), Large Bowel Resection (DC 7329), or Malignant Neoplasms of the Digestive System (DC 7343).

• VA Assigns Ratings Based on Symptoms and Complications: Colon polyps are rated based on the symptoms they cause, such as abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, or the need for surgery, with potential ratings under diagnostic codes for related conditions.

• Untreated Colon Polyps Can Lead to Serious Health Issues: If left untreated, colon polyps can develop into more serious conditions like colon cancer, which could significantly affect a veteran’s disability rating. Active cancers are rate at 100% to include the 6-month period after treatment ends.

What are Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are growths that form on the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) or rectum.

While most colon polyps are benign (noncancerous), some can eventually develop into colon cancer, which is why they are considered precursors to this potentially life-threatening disease.

Polyps vary in size and shape and can either be flat (sessile) or raised on a stalk (pedunculated).

Types of Colon Polyps:

• Adenomatous Polyps (Adenomas): These are the most common type and carry a higher risk of becoming cancerous. About two-thirds of all polyps fall into this category.

• Hyperplastic Polyps: These are usually small and carry a low risk of turning into cancer. However, larger hyperplastic polyps may need closer attention.

• Serrated Polyps: Serrated polyps can be benign (like hyperplastic polyps), but larger ones or those located in the upper colon (proximal colon) can carry a cancer risk.

• Inflammatory Polyps: These are typically found in people with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. While not usually cancerous, they indicate a higher risk of colon cancer due to the underlying inflammatory condition.

Symptoms of Colon Polyps in Veterans

Colon polyps often don’t cause symptoms, which is why they are frequently detected during routine screenings like colonoscopies.

However, when symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on the size, type, and location of the polyps in the colon or rectum.

For veterans, who may face a higher risk due to environmental exposures during service (such as exposure to Agent Orange or burn pits), it’s important to monitor potential symptoms closely.

Here are common symptoms that veterans with colon polyps may experience:

• Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after a bowel movement is one of the most noticeable signs of colon polyps. Veterans should be aware of any blood, whether it’s bright red or darker, as it may indicate bleeding from polyps or other gastrointestinal issues.

• Changes in Bowel Habits: Polyps can lead to altered bowel movements, such as persistent constipation, diarrhea, or a feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely. Changes lasting more than a week should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

• Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Large polyps can sometimes cause cramping or discomfort in the abdomen. Veterans experiencing unexplained abdominal pain should consider seeking medical attention, particularly if they have other risk factors.

• Fatigue and Weakness: If the polyps cause slow, internal bleeding, this can lead to anemia, causing veterans to feel unusually tired, weak, or short of breath, even with routine physical activity.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: In rare cases, when polyps grow large or turn cancerous, they can lead to unintended weight loss. Veterans noticing significant weight loss without changes in diet or exercise should get evaluated.

• Mucus in the Stool: Some veterans may notice mucus in their stool, which can be another indication of colon polyps or other underlying gastrointestinal conditions.

Colon Polyps Risk Factors in Military Veterans

Military veterans may face a unique set of risk factors for developing colon polyps, to include colorectal cancer or colon cancer as well as adenocarcinoma, carcinoid, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, and lymphoma due to environmental exposures and lifestyle factors during service.

These risks can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues, including the development of polyps, which could lead to colorectal cancer if left untreated.

Here are key risk factors that veterans should be aware of:

1. Exposure to Environmental Toxins

• Agent Orange: Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War may face an increased risk of developing various cancers, potentially including colon cancer, which can arise from colon polyps. Although colon cancer is not currently on the VA’s presumptive list of conditions linked to Agent Orange, the herbicide has been associated with long-term health problems across multiple bodily systems, including the gastrointestinal tract. It’s important to note that veterans can still file a VA claim for colon cancer or colon polyps, but they will need to establish a service connection by proving a “nexus” between their condition and military service, as colon cancer is not presumed to be caused by Agent Orange at this time.

• Burn Pits: Veterans exposed to burn pits in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas may have inhaled toxic chemicals, increasing their risk of digestive disorders, including colorectal cancer. The VA now presumes various types of colon cancer, such as adenocarcinoma, carcinoid tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and lymphoma, to be linked to burn pit exposure. Early detection through screenings like colonoscopies is crucial for treating these cancers, which often start as benign polyps and can become malignant if left untreated.

2. High Levels of Stress and Combat Exposure

• Veterans who experienced high levels of stress, particularly those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), may have higher rates of gastrointestinal issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases. These conditions can increase the risk of developing colon polyps.

• Chronic stress can lead to inflammation in the body, which may increase the risk of abnormal tissue growth in the digestive system, including polyps.

3. Diet and Lifestyle During Service

• Dietary habits during military service, especially during deployments, can contribute to long-term gastrointestinal problems. Diets high in processed foods, low fiber, and red meats, common in military rations, can increase the risk of developing colon polyps.

• A lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables during deployments may further exacerbate the risk, as a diet low in fiber is a known factor in the development of polyps.

4. Age and Service-Related Physical Changes

• Like the general population, age is a significant risk factor for developing colon polyps. Veterans over the age of 50 are more likely to develop polyps, and those with service-related gastrointestinal issues may have an even higher risk.

• Physical injuries sustained during service, including abdominal trauma, may contribute to digestive complications that increase the likelihood of developing colon polyps later in life.

5. Pre-existing Conditions and Family History

• Veterans with pre-existing conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis are at increased risk of developing polyps due to the chronic inflammation of the colon.

• A family history of colon cancer or polyps is another key risk factor. Veterans with a family history of gastrointestinal disorders should undergo regular screening to detect and remove polyps early.

6. Smoking and Alcohol Use

• Smoking and excessive alcohol use, which can be prevalent in the military, are also risk factors for developing colon polyps. Veterans with a history of smoking are more likely to develop polyps that can turn into cancer over time.

7. Sedentary Lifestyle After Service

• After leaving the military, some veterans may adopt a more sedentary lifestyle, which is a known risk factor for colon polyps. Lack of exercise and weight gain can contribute to gastrointestinal issues, including the formation of polyps.

Colon Polyps VA Ratings: Detailed Explainer

The only mention of colon polyps in 38 CFR, Part 4, the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, is under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7344, which provides ratings for benign neoplasms, exclusive of skin growths.

The important part is that it instructs VA claims adjudicators to rate colon polyps under an appropriate DC depending on the predominant disability or the specific residuals after treatment. 

Here’s some examples for how the VA rates colon polyps under a predominant disability or specific residuals after treatment:

DC 7301 (Peritoneal Adhesions)

Peritoneal adhesions are bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal tissues and organs, often as a result of surgeries, such as those to remove colon polyps.

These adhesions can cause bowel obstructions and significant pain.

The VA rates peritoneal adhesions from 0% to 80% under 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7301.

38 CFR Rating Criteria for Peritoneal Adhesions:

• 80% Rating: Persistent partial bowel obstruction that is either inoperable and refractory to treatment, or requires total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for obstructive symptoms.

• 50% Rating: Symptomatic peritoneal adhesions that persist or recur after surgery, trauma, inflammatory disease (like chronic cholecystitis or Crohn’s disease), or infection. This includes clinical evidence of recurrent obstruction requiring hospitalization at least once a year and medically-directed dietary modification (excluding TPN), with at least one of the following: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, colic, constipation, or diarrhea.

• 30% Rating: Symptomatic peritoneal adhesions that persist or recur after surgery, trauma, inflammatory disease, or infection, requiring medically-directed dietary modification (excluding TPN), with at least one of the following: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, colic, constipation, or diarrhea.

• 10% Rating: Symptomatic peritoneal adhesions that persist or recur after surgery, trauma, inflammatory disease, or infection, with at least one of the following: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, colic, constipation, or diarrhea.

• 0% Rating: A history of peritoneal adhesions but currently asymptomatic.

DC 7319 (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) involves abnormal functioning of the bowel, causing symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Colon polyps may irritate the bowel and lead to IBS-like symptoms.

The VA rates IBS from 10% to 30% under 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7319.

38 CFR Rating Criteria for IBS:

• 30% Rating: Severe symptoms with diarrhea or alternating diarrhea and constipation, accompanied by constant abdominal distress. Abdominal pain occurs at least once per week for the past three months with two or more of the symptoms listed.

• 20% Rating: Moderate symptoms with frequent episodes of bowel disturbance and abdominal distress. Abdominal pain occurs at least three days per month during the past three months with two or more of the symptoms listed.

• 10% Rating: Mild symptoms that occur occasionally. Abdominal pain occurs at least once in the past three months with two or more of the symptoms listed.

DC 7323 (Ulcerative Colitis)

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon and rectum.

It may be linked to or exacerbated by colon polyps, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition.

The VA rates ulcerative colitis from 10% to 100% under 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7323.

38 CFR Rating Criteria for Ulcerative Colitis:

• 100% Rating: Pronounced ulcerative colitis symptoms. The condition must result in severe malnutrition, anemia, and general debility, or have serious complications like liver abscesses.

• 60% Rating: Applies to severe cases where there are numerous attacks throughout the year, with associated malnutrition and health that is only fair during remissions.

• 30% Rating: For moderately severe cases, involving frequent exacerbations of symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.

• 10% Rating: Given for mild symptoms with infrequent flare-ups.

DC 7329 (Intestine, Large, Resection Of)

A large bowel resection, also known as a colectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion or the entire large bowel, which is also referred to as the large intestine or colon.

If both the colon and the rectum are removed, the procedure is called a proctocolectomy.

DC 7329 applies to cases where a part of the large intestine has been surgically removed, often due to colon polyps or related issues.

The VA rates large bowel resection (colectomy) from 10% to 100% under 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7329.

38 CFR Rating Criteria for Large Intestine Resection, also known as a Colectomy:

• 100% Rating: Total colectomy with ileostomy, causing high-output syndrome, and more than two episodes of dehydration requiring intravenous hydration in the past 12 months.

• 60% Rating: Total colectomy with or without a permanent colostomy or ileostomy, but without high-output syndrome.

• 40% Rating: Partial colectomy with a permanent colostomy or ileostomy, but without high-output syndrome.

• 20% Rating: Partial colectomy with reconnection of the intestinal tube (re-anastomosis), resulting in the loss of the ileocecal valve and recurrent diarrhea occurring more than 3 times per day.

• 10% Rating: Partial colectomy with re-anastomosis, without severe symptoms like diarrhea.

DC 7343 (Malignant Neoplasms of the Digestive System)

This code applies to malignant neoplasms (cancers) of the digestive system including colon cancer.

If colon polyps become cancerous, this rating is applicable.

The VA rates active malignant neoplasms (cancers) of the digestive system to include colon cancer at 100% under 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7343.

38 CFR Rating Criteria for Malignant Neoplasms to Include Colon Cancer:

• 100% Rating: During active cancer treatment (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation). Veterans with active malignant neoplasms of the digestive system receive a temporary 100% disability rating while undergoing treatment.

• Reevaluation: Six months after treatment ends, the VA will schedule a reevaluation examination. At that point, the VA will assess if the cancer has been cured, is in remission, or if there are ongoing complications. The veteran’s rating will then be adjusted based on residuals or complications like digestive system issues, bowel obstructions, or surgical effects.

• Residuals Rating: If the cancer is in remission but the veteran has residual issues (e.g., digestive problems, bowel resection, or adhesions), the rating will depend on the severity of those residual symptoms, typically ranging from 10% to 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms and impacts to your work, life, and social functioning.

Colon Polyps and VA Disability: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What VA rating can I get for colon polyps?

VA disability ratings for colon polyps depend on the severity of symptoms and their impact on your daily life, work, and social functioning. Colon polyps themselves are not always rated separately unless they result in significant health issues, such as bowel obstruction, surgery, or cancer. Ratings can vary between 0% and 100%, depending on the condition’s predominant disability and how it affects your ability to work.

How does the VA rate colon polyps under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7344?

Colon polyps, if benign, are generally rated under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7344 for benign neoplasms, excluding skin growths. The rating for benign colon polyps is based on the residual effects or symptoms caused by the polyps, such as bowel obstruction, pain, or the need for surgery. For example, if colon polyps cause frequent obstructions, they might be rated similarly to other conditions like peritoneal adhesions.

Can colon polyps be rated under Diagnostic Code 7319 for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Yes, if colon polyps result in symptoms like abdominal distress or bowel irregularities, the condition may be rated under Diagnostic Code 7319 for irritable colon syndrome. Ratings for this condition range from 0% to 30%, depending on the frequency and severity of symptoms. A veteran experiencing frequent episodes of diarrhea and cramping due to polyps may be rated at 30%.

How does the VA rate colon polyps that lead to surgery?

If the removal of colon polyps requires surgery and leads to complications like adhesions (scar tissue) or bowel obstructions, the condition might be rated under Diagnostic Code 7301 (Peritoneal Adhesions). The rating varies from 0% to 80% based on the severity of symptoms. An 80% rating is awarded for persistent partial bowel obstruction that is either inoperable and refractory to treatment, or requires total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for obstructive symptoms.

Can colon polyps cause cancer, and how is that rated by the VA?

If colon polyps become malignant and develop into colon cancer, the VA would rate this condition under Diagnostic Code 7343 for malignant neoplasms of the digestive system. Colon cancer is rated at 100% during active treatment (such as chemotherapy or radiation), and this rating is re-evaluated six months after treatment ends to determine the long-term residual effects of cancer or treatment.

Can I receive a VA rating for complications from colon polyp removal?

Yes, if complications arise after surgery to remove colon polyps, such as adhesions or bowel obstructions, the VA will rate those complications under Diagnostic Code 7301 for Peritoneal Adhesions. If the surgery results in significant and recurring symptoms, a higher rating may be warranted based on the severity of the complications.

How do I increase my VA disability rating for colon polyps?

The VA considers the frequency, severity, and duration of your symptoms and how they affect your work, life, and social functioning. For example, if you experience frequent abdominal pain or require multiple surgeries due to colon polyps, you may receive a higher VA disability rating. The VA will also review your medical records, treatment history, and any complications resulting from the polyps to determine an appropriate rating.

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