VA Disability Benefits for Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer can be an ordeal and is often fatal. However, early detection and treatment increases survival rates dramatically. A veteran suffering from esophageal cancer can receive VA disability benefits if:

They have a current diagnosis of esophageal cancer, and
They can show that the cancer is connected to their military service

In most situations, the veteran will have to show the VA that the condition started during their military service, or that it was caused by an illness, exposure, or injury that occurred during their military service. However, for some veterans, esophageal cancer is presumed service-connected.

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Establishing A Service Connection

Esophageal cancer is presumed service-connected for veterans who were exposed to burn pits during their military service. Service connection is also presumed for veterans who served in “radiation risk activities.”

Even if there is no presumptive service connection, the veteran may be able to establish a connection. For example, there is currently no presumed service connection for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and developed esophageal cancer. However, there is evidence of such a connection. Esophageal cancer may also be secondary to a service-connected condition, presumptive or not. For instance, since the PACT Act took effect, hypertension is presumed service-connected for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange. And, hypertension has been found to increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

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VA Disability Ratings for Esophageal Cancer

A veteran with active cancer will typically receive a 100% disability rating, and that rating will typically continue for six months post-treatment before re-evaluating the veteran’s condition. After successful cancer treatment, the VA disability rating will depend on the nature and extent of any residual disabilities. A veteran who is cancer-free and healthy six months after treatment may lose their disability rating entirely, whereas one who is suffering from treatment-related or post-surgical problems or has developed secondary conditions may receive a new rating based on their current condition.

Get the Help You Need with Your VA Disability Claim

The VA disability claim and appeals processes can be daunting. It can be especially tough to navigate the system when you’re struggling with a debilitating medical condition. Fortunately, the advocates at Disabled Vets have extensive experience with both processes and can help you determine whether you have a presumptive service connection what you must show to qualify, what type of evidence is required to establish a connection if the connection is not presumed, and what type of medical evidence will be needed to support an appropriate VA disability rating. To learn more about how we can help you, call 888-373-4722 right now, or fill out our contact form here.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form