VA Presumptive Issues

Presumptive issues refer to certain medical conditions that are assumed to be service-connected for veterans who served in certain locations or under certain circumstances.

The Veterans Administration (VA) has established a list of presumptive conditions that are automatically considered to be service-connected for veterans who meet certain criteria. These conditions include:

1.    Agent Orange exposure: Veterans who served in certain areas of Vietnam and Korea during the Vietnam War are presumed to have been exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide used by the military. This exposure is linked to a variety of medical conditions, including certain cancers, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes.

2.    Gulf War illness: Veterans who served in the Gulf War are presumed to have a service-connected illness caused by exposure to environmental toxins and other hazards.

3.    Camp Lejeune water contamination: Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina between 1957 and 1987 are presumed to have been exposed to contaminated drinking water. This exposure is linked to a variety of medical conditions, including certain cancers, and kidney and liver damage.

4.    Radiation exposure: Veterans who were exposed to ionizing radiation during their military service are presumed to have a service-connected illness.

5.    Depleted Uranium exposure: Veterans who were exposed to depleted uranium during their military service are presumed to have a service-connected illness.

6.    Prisoners of War: Veterans who were prisoners of war during their military service are presumed to have a service-connected illness caused by the conditions of captivity.

7.    Blue Water Navy Vietnam veterans: Veterans who served in the waters off the coast of Vietnam during the Vietnam War are presumed to have been exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide used by the military.

8.    Certain airborne hazards: Veterans who served in certain locations and situations are presumed to have been exposed to certain airborne hazards, such as mustard gas, lewisite, and other chemical warfare agents.

It's important to note that the criteria for these presumptive issues are subject to change over time and it's important to consult the VA website for the most current information. You can download the VA document titled, “Presumptive Disability Benefits” HERE!

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