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The VA officially links bladder cancer and Agent Orange exposure, but for years, it wasn’t considered a presumptive condition.
Thanks to updated research and expanded VA policies, more veterans may now qualify for the compensation they rightfully deserve.
If you were exposed to Agent Orange during service and later diagnosed with bladder cancer, you may qualify for VA disability compensation and benefits.
Let’s explore what that means for you.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- Agent Orange contains toxic chemicals, like dioxin, that can damage cells and increase cancer risk, including bladder cancer.
- Veterans diagnosed with bladder cancer (urothelial carcinoma) due to Agent Orange may qualify for VA disability benefits without needing to prove a direct service connection.
- The VA rates bladder cancer at 100% while it is active or being treated, then assigns a residual rating based on any lasting symptoms or complications.
The Link Between Bladder Cancer and Agent Orange
Agent Orange, an herbicide used during the Vietnam War, contains harmful chemicals, like dioxin, that can increase the risk of several diseases, including bladder cancer.
While the exact way dioxin causes bladder cancer is still being studied, research confirms a higher risk among exposed veterans.
A 2023 study showed Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange had a slightly higher chance of developing bladder cancer.
Interestingly, these veterans tended to have less aggressive cancer, possibly due to earlier diagnosis from increased health screenings.
Related Post: The Effects of Agent Orange
How Bladder Cancer Became a Presumptive Condition
Bladder cancer was added as a presumptive condition after new research confirmed a strong link between the disease and Agent Orange exposure.
This decision came as part of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021, reflecting years of scientific studies and advocacy by veterans’ groups.
For most VA claims, veterans need to show proof, like a current diagnosis, details of their exposure during service, and a medical opinion connecting the two.
However, if the condition is presumptive, like bladder cancer from Agent Orange, the VA assumes it’s service-related, so you don’t have to prove an in-service event.
50+ Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions (Updated List)
Why VA Presumptive Conditions Are Easy to Get Approved!
Who Qualifies for Agent Orange Bladder Cancer Compensation?
To receive Agent Orange bladder cancer compensation, you must meet the following criteria:
- You have a current diagnosis of bladder cancer, and
- You served in an eligible location during a qualifying time period where Agent Orange exposure occurred, as outlined by VA guidelines.
If bladder cancer wasn’t presumptive when you filed, you’ll also need to provide evidence that the condition began or worsened during service or scientific studies linking it to Agent Orange.
Related Post: Military Bases in the U.S. That Stored Agent Orange
What is the Bladder Cancer VA Disability Rating?
The VA rates bladder cancer under diagnostic code 7528, malignant neoplasms of the genitourinary system.
The VA assigns a 100% disability rating while bladder cancer is active or under treatment (including up to six months after treatment ends).
After treatment, the VA may assign a residual rating based on ongoing symptoms, including:
- Urinary frequency
- Kidney dysfunction
Residual VA ratings can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. For example, the VA rates frequent urination at 10%, 20%, or 40%. Typically, the more often you need to go, especially at night, the higher the disability rating you may receive.
Related Post: Increase Your VA Disability Rating for Cancer in Remission
Filing a VA Claim for Bladder Cancer Linked to Agent Orange
If you have bladder cancer and were exposed to Agent Orange, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits.
Whether filing a new VA claim or appealing a denial, here’s how to get started.
If You Haven’t Filed a Claim Yet
You can file a new VA disability claim for bladder cancer as a presumptive condition:
- By mail
- In person at a VA regional office
- Via fax
Pro Tip: File your VA claim online for the fastest processing time.
If You Were Denied in the Past
If the VA denied your bladder cancer claim before it was considered presumptive, you can now file a supplemental claim. The VA will re-review your case with the updated guidelines.
Related Post: The BEST Way to File a VA Disability Claim!
TDIU and Bladder Cancer
If your bladder cancer prevents you from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
For example, if your VA rating for bladder cancer drops below 100% after treatment, TDIU may still pay you at the 100% disability rate.
To qualify for TDIU, you must have:
- One service-connected disability rated at 60% or more, or
- Two or more service-connected disabilities, with one at least 40% and a combined VA rating of 70% or more
Related Post: VA TDIU Approval Rate
(VIDEO) Agent Orange Presumptives: It’s Never Too Late for Benefits!
Conclusion
The link between Agent Orange and bladder cancer is now clear and officially recognized by the VA, providing many eligible veterans with long-overdue access to VA disability benefits.
Understanding this connection, your eligibility, and how to file or appeal claims is crucial to securing the VA compensation and benefits you deserve.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Does bladder cancer qualify for VA disability?
Yes, bladder cancer qualifies for VA disability if it’s linked to your military service, like exposure to Agent Orange. The VA grants presumptive service connection for eligible veterans, making it easier to receive VA disability benefits.
What is the VA rating for bladder cancer?
The VA rates bladder cancer at 100% while it is active or during treatment, including up to six months after treatment ends. After that, the VA assigns a residual rating based on ongoing symptoms or complications related to the cancer.
Can Agent Orange cause bladder cancer?
Yes, research has shown a slight but significant link between Agent Orange exposure and an increased risk of bladder cancer. Because of this, the VA now recognizes bladder cancer as a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
Is bladder cancer an Agent Orange presumptive condition?
Yes, the VA recognizes bladder cancer as a presumptive condition. This means the VA automatically presumes your military service caused the cancer if you served in a location where Agent Orange was used.
Can you get VA disability for bladder cancer in remission?
Yes, you can get VA disability for bladder cancer in remission through a residual rating based on any lasting symptoms or complications. The VA evaluates your ongoing issues, like urinary problems or kidney damage, to determine your VA disability percentage.
What are the diseases associated with Agent Orange?
The VA recognizes several diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure, including bladder cancer, certain types of diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and respiratory cancers. Veterans exposed to Agent Orange who develop these conditions may be eligible for VA disability benefits. See the updated list here: 50+ Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions
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Author
Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
