Hypertension and Agent Orange What You Need to Know About VA Decisions

Hypertension and Agent Orange: What You Need to Know About VA Decisions

Agent Orange was a herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to clear dense vegetation. It contained a toxic chemical called dioxin, which has been linked to a range of health problems, including hypertension. In recent years, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has made decisions regarding the link between Agent Orange and hypertension, and it is important for veterans to understand these decisions and how they may impact their benefits.

In 2018, the VA made a decision to add hypertension to the list of presumptive conditions associated with exposure to Agent Orange. This means that veterans who served in Vietnam or in certain other areas during the Vietnam War and who have been diagnosed with hypertension may be eligible for VA disability benefits.

To qualify for benefits, veterans must have been exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during their service. This may include veterans who served in Vietnam, as well as those who served in other areas where Agent Orange was used, such as Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.

Veterans must also have a diagnosis of hypertension that is at least 10% disabling. This means that the hypertension must be severe enough to impact the veteran's ability to work or perform daily activities.

It is important to note that veterans who have hypertension but do not meet the criteria for disability benefits may still be eligible for VA health care. VA health care includes a range of services, including medical treatment, medications, and counseling.

If you are a veteran who has been diagnosed with hypertension and was exposed to Agent Orange during your service, it is important to file a claim for VA disability benefits. You can do this by completing VA Form 21-526EZ, which is available on the VA website.

When filing a claim, it is important to provide as much information as possible about your service and your hypertension diagnosis. This may include medical records, service records, and statements from medical professionals.

The VA will review your claim and make a decision based on the evidence provided. If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for disability compensation, which is a monthly payment that is based on the severity of your disability.

In conclusion, the VA has made a decision to add hypertension to the list of presumptive conditions associated with exposure to Agent Orange. This means that veterans who served in Vietnam or in certain other areas during the Vietnam War and who have been diagnosed with hypertension may be eligible for VA disability benefits. If you are a veteran who has been diagnosed with hypertension and was exposed to Agent Orange during your service, it is important to file a claim for VA disability benefits and provide as much information as possible to support your claim.