🎗️ Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Understanding VA Benefits, Ratings, and Presumptive Conditions

Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of early detection, screenings, and support for those impacted by breast cancer. For many Veterans, this month also highlights a crucial question:Could my breast cancer be connected to my military service — and am I eligible for VA disability benefits?

While breast cancer affects more women than men, it’s important to recognize that any Veteran can develop breast cancer, and service-related exposures may play a role. Understanding how the VA evaluates breast cancer claims can help Veterans access the care and compensation they deserve.

💡 The PACT Act and Breast Cancer Presumptive Conditions

The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to toxic substances like burn pits, airborne hazards, and contaminated water. It also added several presumptive conditions, which are illnesses the VA automatically considers service-connected if certain criteria are met.

Currently, breast cancer is not listed as a presumptive condition for all Veterans, but there are cases where it may still qualify as service-connected, including Veterans who served in areas with:

• Burn pits or airborne toxins (Gulf War and post-9/11 Veterans)

• Herbicide exposure, such as Agent Orange (Vietnam-era Veterans)

• Radiation exposure or toxic water contamination

Even if your diagnosis isn’t on the presumptive list, you can still establish service connection through medical evidence or a nexus letter linking your cancer to military exposures.

👉 Tip: A nexus opinion from a medical professional can make a big difference in proving your claim.

📊 VA Disability Ratings for Breast Cancer

If you are diagnosed with active breast cancer, the VA typically assigns a 100% disability rating during treatment and for at least six months afterward. Once treatment ends, the VA reevaluates your condition based on residual effects, which may include:

• Surgical scarring or disfigurement

• Lymphedema, limited arm or shoulder movement

• Chronic fatigue or weakness

• Pain, nerve damage, or restricted mobility

• Mental health effects such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD

After reevaluation, your rating may continue depending on how these residual symptoms affect your daily life and work ability.

👥 Why This Awareness Matters for Every Veteran

Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate — and neither should Veteran benefits. Whether you’re male or female, active duty, Reserve, or retired, your risk can be influenced by your environment, duties, and exposures during service.

Many Veterans don’t realize they could qualify for VA disability compensation for breast cancer or related conditions. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to:

• Review your military exposure history

• Ask your provider about VA breast cancer screenings and eligibility

• Explore whether your diagnosis may be service-connected under the PACT Act

Knowledge is power — and in this case, it could mean access to life-changing benefits and health care.

🫶 You’re Not Alone — Get Help With Your VA Claim

The VA claims process can feel overwhelming, especially while managing your health. But you don’t have to do it alone. Our team helps Veterans:

• Gather medical evidence and nexus letters

• File or appeal VA claims for breast cancer and related conditions

• Understand VA ratings and eligibility under the PACT Act

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take the next step toward protecting your health and your benefits.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your VA breast cancer claim.

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