Navigating a VA disability rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is essential for veterans seeking VA compensation and benefits.
In this post, we’ll delve into the various aspects of obtaining a VA disability rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, exploring key factors and considerations.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma, a form of cancer, is intricately linked to veterans’ military service, with over 13,000 veterans receiving VA disability compensation for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2022 alone.
This connection often arises from exposure to toxic substances like Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation, or contaminated water, making it imperative for veterans to comprehend the complexities of a lymphoma VA rating and the benefits associated with lymphatic cancers.
VA Disability Rating for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
The VA disability rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma falls under 38 CFR § 4.117, using Diagnostic Code 7715. Your lymphoma VA rating depends on whether or not you have recently undergone treatment.
100% VA Disability Rating for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
During Treatment:
A 100% VA Disability Rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma continues for two years after discontinuance of treatment (including any surgical, radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedures.
Post-Treatment:
Two years after treatment has been discontinued, an appropriate VA disability rating will be determined by a mandatory VA examination.
VA Compensation for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
A 100% VA rating (for a veteran with no dependents) means your tax-free VA compensation for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma would be more than $3,700 monthly. See complete VA pay rates here:
See the additional criteria for the VA disability rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in the eCFR section here (under DC 7715).
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Lymphoma and Military Service Connection
Lymphomas, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, can be directly or indirectly service-connected.
Moreover, they are considered presumptive conditions in specific circumstances, acknowledging the likelihood of their connection to military service.
The prevalence of lymphatic cancers underscores the importance of veterans seeking recognition and support through the VA disability compensation program.
Types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma encompasses a diverse spectrum of cancers originating in the lymphatic system.
This intricate group of malignancies can be broadly categorized into B-cell and T-cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas, each presenting with distinctive subtypes. It is very important to know which type and subtype have been diagnosed.
Sometimes, more than one type of lymphoma can be found in the same patient. This page includes information about the most common types and subtypes as follows:
B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
- Follicular lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Mantle cell lymphoma
- Marginal zone lymphomas
- Burkitt lymphoma
- Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
- Hairy cell leukemia
- Primary central nervous system lymphoma
- Primary intraocular lymphoma
T-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas
- T-lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia
- Peripheral T-cell lymphoma
- Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas
- Adult T-cell leukemia
- Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma
- Extranodal T-cell lymphoma
- Enteropathy-associated intestinal T-cell lymphoma
- Anaplastic large cell lymphoma
- Peripheral T-cell lymphoma
Presumptive Service Connection for Toxic-Exposed Veterans
Lymphoma’s association with exposure to toxic substances is particularly pertinent for military service members.
Agent Orange Lymphoma
The VA recognizes lymphoma as a presumptive condition linked to Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation, and contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. See more information here.
This designation alleviates the burden on veterans to prove the medical nexus between their condition and military service, streamlining the claims process.
Conclusion
The VA disability rating for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is 100% (for active and actively treated NHL) and continues for two years following the discontinuance of treatment. At that point, the VA will require an exam to reassess the residual effects of the disability and re-rate accordingly.
As veterans dealing with the implications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, understanding the nuances of VA ratings and benefits is crucial.
The intricate relationship between lymphatic cancers and military service, coupled with presumptive service connection for toxic exposures, underscores the need for veterans to leverage the VA disability compensation program.
This post aims to empower veterans with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the system, ensuring they receive the recognition and support they rightfully deserve.
NEED MORE ASSISTANCE?
Most veterans are underrated for their disabilities and, therefore, not getting their due compensation. At VA Claims Insider, we help you understand how to take control of the claims process so you can get the rating and compensation you’re owed by law. Our process takes the guesswork out of filing a VA disability claim and supports you every step of the way in building a fully-developed claim (FDC)—so you can increase your rating FAST!
If you’ve filed your VA disability claim and have been denied or have received a low rating—or you’re unsure how to get started—reach out to us! Take advantage of a FREE VA Claim Discovery Call. Learn what you’ve been missing—so you can FINALLY get the disability rating and compensation YOU DESERVE!
Asaad Fakhir
A former US Army translator in Iraq (2006-2009) and an ex-commissioned Iraqi officer, Asaad graduated from the Royal Australian Military College (2010-2014). Asaad holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Arts and currently serves as a content writer at VACI, leveraging military experience with linguistic skills to create impactful content.
