The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has expanded its list of presumptive service-connected disabilities to include three additional cancer types: male breast cancer, urethral cancer, and cancer of the paraurethral glands.

This change aims to simplify the disability claims process for veterans exposed to environmental hazards during their military service.

Understanding Presumptive Service Connection

A presumptive service connection means that the VA automatically assumes a veteran’s specific disease or condition is related to their military service. This assumption eliminates the need for veterans to provide direct evidence linking their illness to their service, thereby streamlining access to disability compensation and healthcare benefits.

Newly Added Presumptive Cancers

The VA’s updated list now includes:

Male Breast Cancer: A rare form of cancer that develops in the small amount of breast tissue present in men.

Urethral Cancer: A cancer affecting the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

Cancer of the Paraurethral Glands: A rare cancer originating in the paraurethral glands, which are located near the urethra.

These additions are part of the VA’s ongoing efforts to recognize and address health issues stemming from military environmental exposures.

Eligibility Criteria

The new presumptive conditions apply to Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans who served in specific locations, including:

Afghanistan

Iraq

Somalia

Djibouti

Egypt

Jordan

Lebanon

Syria

Yemen

Uzbekistan

The entire Southwest Asia theater of operations

Veterans who served in these regions and have been diagnosed with any of the newly added cancers are now presumed to have developed these conditions due to their military service.

Impact on Veterans

This policy change is expected to benefit numerous veterans by reducing the burden of proof required for disability claims. By recognizing these cancers as service-connected, the VA aims to provide timely access to healthcare and financial support for affected veterans.

Application Process

Veterans diagnosed with these cancers are encouraged to file a disability compensation claim with the VA. Those who have previously filed claims for these conditions and were denied are advised to reapply, as the new presumptive status may change the outcome of their claims. The VA has committed to reviewing past claims to identify veterans who may now be eligible for benefits under the updated policy.

VA’s Commitment

This expansion reflects the VA’s dedication to supporting veterans affected by toxic exposures during their service. By continually updating the list of presumptive conditions, the VA strives to ensure that veterans receive the care and benefits they have earned.

Additional Resources

For more information on the new presumptive conditions and the application process, veterans can visit the VA’s official website or contact their local VA office. It’s important for veterans to stay informed about such updates, as they can significantly impact their access to benefits and healthcare services.

The inclusion of male breast cancer, urethral cancer, and cancer of the paraurethral glands as presumptive service-connected conditions marks a significant step in acknowledging the health challenges faced by veterans due to environmental exposures. This policy change aims to provide timely support and resources to those who have served the nation.