Many veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange during their service are now experiencing serious health issues such as esophageal cancer and Barrett’s Esophagus.
This article explores the link between these conditions and provides insight into VA disability benefits that may be available.
Vietnam Veterans and Increased Cancer Risks
Veterans exposed to Agent Orange, including those stationed in Vietnam, on Blue Water Navy vessels, and other locations, face heightened risks for two main types of esophageal cancer:
- Squamous Cell Cancer: Typically develops in the cells lining the esophagus, exacerbated by external irritants like smoking and alcohol.
- Adenocarcinoma: Often occurs in the altered cells of Barrett’s esophagus, which changes from squamous to columnar cells in response to damage from stomach acid.
Both conditions significantly enhance the likelihood of developing severe health complications, influenced by both environmental exposures during service and lifestyle factors post-service.
Find out if you were aboard a U.S. military vessel that was exposed to Agent Orange by using our interactive Blue Water Navy Map below.
Click here to find out if your ship was exposed
Squamous Cell Cancer and VA Benefits
Squamous cell cancer is recognized for VA disability claims due to its clear links to environmental factors and lifestyle choices, both common among veterans.
Adenocarcinoma and Barrett’s Esophagus
This type of cancer develops from Barrett’s esophagus, a condition where prolonged acid reflux causes the cells in the esophagus lining to change.
Veterans with Barrett’s are at a 50-100 times greater risk of cancer than the general population.
Understanding GERD and Secondary Health Risks
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is prevalent among veterans and can lead to multiple complications.
Some of these include:
- Erosive Esophagitis: Chronic acid exposure damages the esophagus, leading to potential scarring and narrowing.
- Barrett’s Esophagus: A transformation in esophageal cells due to acid damage, increasing cancer risk.
The VA provides compensation for GERD and its complications under various diagnostic codes, reflecting the severity and impact on a veteran’s health.
Hypertension and Its Connection to Sleep Apnea
Veterans with sleep apnea, a condition often seen in conjunction with GERD, may also suffer from secondary hypertension.
This relationship is due to the strain on the cardiovascular system caused by frequent night-time awakenings and reduced oxygen levels.
Key Points:
- Impact on Health: Both hypertension and sleep apnea can lead to severe health issues, including heart disease and stroke.
- VA Ratings: Hypertension can be rated as a secondary condition to sleep apnea, with ratings dependent on the severity and control of blood pressure.
Filing Your VA Claim: Linking Conditions for Better Outcomes
Veterans seeking to increase their disability ratings should consider filing claims that connect sleep apnea, hypertension, and esophageal conditions.
While we talk about secondary service connection in greater detail in our guide, you should understand a few key steps to keep in mind when applying for secondary conditions to your disability caused by Agent Orange exposure.
Here’s a brief list:
- Identify the Connection: Make sure it’s clear how your primary service-connected condition has caused or worsened other health issues you are trying to claim as secondary conditions.
- Collect Medical and Other Evidence: Gather medical records, doctor’s statements, treatment documentation, lay statements, buddy statements and any other evidence to help bolster your claim and prove your secondary condition connection.
- File Your Claim: File a claim for VA disability benefits through the VA’s website or with the assistance of a VA-accredited attorney or agent. If you have previously applied for benefits and are appealing, you can consider hiring legal representation if necessary to assist with connecting your secondary conditions.
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Get a Free Case EvaluationCassandra Crosby, an Accredited Agent and claims advocate for Matthew Hill & Shelly Mark’s teams, reviewed the information provided in this post.
