Veterans and Cancer: Understanding Service-Related Risks, Connections, and Benefits

Introduction

Veterans have served and sacrificed, often facing unique health risks during and after their time in the military. Among these health concerns is an increased risk for certain cancers due to exposure to hazardous environments and substances. On this Veterans Day, let’s take the opportunity to discuss cancer risks specific to Veterans, how service connections affect healthcare eligibility, and what benefits are available to Veterans diagnosed with cancer.

Cancer Risks and Veterans: Understanding Unique Exposures

Military service often places Veterans in environments where they’re exposed to carcinogens and other harmful substances. Here are some key cancer risks associated with specific exposures:

1. Agent Orange Exposure (Vietnam War Era)
   • Veterans exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War have an increased risk of several cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and chronic B-cell leukemias. Studies show a link between Agent Orange and prostate cancer, respiratory cancers, and other malignancies.
   • The VA presumes that certain cancers are “service-connected” for those who were exposed to Agent Orange, making it easier for Veterans to access health benefits.
2. Burn Pit Exposure (Post-9/11 Veterans)
   • Veterans deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas post-9/11 were often exposed to burn pits used for waste disposal. Inhaling fumes from these pits is linked to respiratory issues and may increase the risk of lung cancer and other cancers affecting the respiratory tract.
   • Recently, the VA has recognized burn pit exposure as a potential risk factor, allowing Veterans to apply for benefits if they have specific health conditions, including certain cancers.
3. Radiation Exposure
   • Veterans involved in nuclear weapons testing, clean-up operations, or stationed at Hiroshima and Nagasaki post-WWII may have been exposed to ionizing radiation. Radiation exposure is associated with an increased risk of cancers, including leukemia, thyroid cancer, and cancers affecting the lungs and digestive tract.
   • The VA presumes certain cancers are service-connected for Veterans exposed to radiation, providing a pathway to benefits.
4. Asbestos Exposure (Navy Veterans)
   • Navy Veterans who served on ships or worked in shipyards were often exposed to asbestos, a substance linked to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and gastrointestinal cancers. Asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding materials and insulation.
   • The VA recognizes certain cancers as service-connected for Veterans with documented asbestos exposure during their service.

Understanding Service Connection and Benefits for Veterans with Cancer

A service connection is a determination by the VA that a Veteran’s disability or illness is directly related to their military service. Establishing a service connection is crucial for Veterans with cancer because it entitles them to various benefits, including medical care, disability compensation, and other support services.

Here’s what Veterans need to know about establishing a service connection for cancer:

1. Presumptive Service Connections
   • Certain cancers are presumed to be service-connected based on exposure history. For example, if a Veteran was exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam and develops prostate cancer, the VA automatically presumes a service connection, simplifying the claims process.
   • Presumptive service connections apply to Veterans exposed to Agent Orange, radiation, and certain other toxins. The VA’s website provides a detailed list of cancers associated with each exposure typeirect Service Connections**
   • For cancers not covered under presumptive conditions, Veterans may establish a direct service connection by providing evidence that their cancer is linked to a specific incident or exposure during service. This typically requires medical records, documentation of the exposure, and a physician’s statement linking the cancer to that exposure.
2. Secondary Service Connections
   • In some cases, cancer may develop as a secondary condition to another service-connected disability. For example, a Veteran with a service-connected lung condition could later develop lung cancer related to this condition, allowing them to claim a secondary service connection.

VA Health Benefits for Veterans with Cancer

Once a service connection is established, Veterans with cancer are eligible for various VA healthcare benefits:

1. Cancer Treatment and Comprehensive Care
   • Veterans with service-connected cancer are eligible for treatment at VA medical centers, which include specialized oncology care, surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials.
   • The VA healthcare system has a wide network of oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists who provide cancer treatment and follow-up care tailored to Veterans.
2. Disability Compensation
   • Veterans with service-connected cancer are entitled to monthly disability compensation, which varies based on the severity and impact of the cancer. Veterans with active cancer are typically rated at 100% disability while undergoing treatment, with re-evaluation occurring after the cancer is in remission.
   • Compensation benefits can help alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment and provide additional resources for Veterans and their families.
3. Access to PACT Act Benefits
   • The PACT Act, passed in 2022, expands benefits and healthcare access for Veterans exposed to burn pits, radiation, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. This act provides healthcare access to millions of post-9/11 Veterans and expands presumptive conditions to include additional cancers associated with toxic exposure.
4. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
   • For families of Veterans who pass away due to service-connected cancer, the VA offers Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, a monthly benefit to support surviving spouses, children, or parents.
5. Counseling and Support Services
   • Cancer can take a psychological and emotional toll. The VA offers mental health counseling, peer support groups, and other resources to help Veterans cope with the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

Preventive Care and Cancer Screening through the VA

The VA also provides preventive services and screenings to detect cancer early, which is crucial for improving outcomes. Here are some key preventive services available to Veterans:

• Annual Screenings: The VA offers routine screenings for cancers like colorectal, lung, prostate, and breast cancer, especially for high-risk groups. Veterans who meet certain criteria, such as age or smoking history, may qualify for early screenings.
• Preventive Health Counseling: Veterans can receive counseling on lifestyle changes to lower cancer risk, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise.
• Low-Dose CT Scans for Lung Cancer: Veterans with a significant smoking history are eligible for low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer, as early detection dramatically improves survival rates.

Steps for Veterans to Access Cancer Care and Benefits

If you are a Veteran with a cancer diagnosis or concerned about cancer risk, here’s how to begin accessing VA healthcare and benefits:

1. File a Claim for Service Connection: Begin by filing a claim with the VA, providing all relevant medical records, exposure history, and any supporting documentation from physicians linking the cancer to service.
2. Consult with a VA Benefits Counselor: VA benefits counselors can guide Veterans through the claims process, help gather necessary documentation, and ensure claims are complete.
3. Enroll in VA Healthcare: Veterans who haven’t yet enrolled can do so online or through their local VA medical center to access cancer screenings, preventive care, and comprehensive cancer treatment.
4. Utilize Support Resources: The VA offers support resources, including mental health counseling, palliative care for advanced cancer stages, and support groups. These resources can provide additional help throughout the cancer journey.

Honoring Veterans by Ensuring Access to Care

On this Veterans Day, we honor the service and sacrifices of Veterans by raising awareness of the unique health challenges they face, particularly with cancer. With improved access to healthcare, service-connected benefits, and preventive services, the VA is committed to supporting Veterans in their fight against cancer. If you or a loved one is a Veteran facing cancer, know that support, treatment, and benefits are available to help you every step of the way.

About the Author

Dr. Thomas is a distinguished medical professional and a compassionate guide in the field of oncology. With over a decade of dedicated experience as a board-certified medical oncologist/internal medicine specialist, Dr. Thomas has become a trusted expert in the treatment of melanoma, sarcoma, and gastrointestinal conditions. With his many years of experience, he brings a wealth of expertise to the complex and challenging world of oncology. About Dr Thomas – MedOncMD