Hypertension and VA Disability Claims for Agent Orange Exposure

Hypertension and VA Disability Claims for Agent Orange Exposure

During the Vietnam War, the United States military sprayed millions of gallons of herbicides, including Agent Orange, over the jungles of Vietnam to destroy enemy cover and crops. Unfortunately, this exposure has been linked to a number of health conditions, including hypertension. In this article, we will explore the link between Agent Orange exposure, hypertension, and VA disability claims.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of arteries is consistently too high. While hypertension can occur in anyone, it is particularly concerning for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange during their service in Vietnam.

Agent Orange is a herbicide that contains a toxic chemical called dioxin. Dioxin has been linked to a number of health conditions, including hypertension. In fact, a study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that there is ”sufficient evidence of an association” between exposure to Agent Orange and hypertension.

If you are a veteran who was exposed to Agent Orange during your service in Vietnam and are now experiencing hypertension, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA recognizes hypertension as a presumptive condition for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, which means that you do not need to prove a direct link between your hypertension and your military service in order to receive benefits.

To qualify for VA disability benefits for hypertension, you must have a current diagnosis of hypertension and evidence of your exposure to Agent Orange during your military service. This may include documentation such as service records, medical records, and buddy statements.

If you are approved for VA disability benefits for hypertension, you may be eligible for a monthly tax-free payment, as well as access to VA healthcare and other benefits. The amount of your payment will depend on the severity of your hypertension and other factors such as your dependents.

In conclusion, hypertension is a common health condition that can be linked to Agent Orange exposure for Vietnam veterans. If you are a veteran who was exposed to Agent Orange and are now experiencing hypertension, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. To learn more about the VA disability claims process for Agent Orange-related conditions, including hypertension, it is important to speak with a qualified VA disability attorney or representative who can guide you through the process and help you obtain the benefits you deserve.