VA revised regulation will increase access to health care and disability benefits for Vietnam veterans

A new rule published on August 31, 2010 in the Federal Register by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will expand the list of health problems the VA will presume to be related to Agent Orange and other herbicide exposures. In particular, the VA is adding Parkinson's disease and ischemic heart disease to the list of health problems. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia will be expanded to include all chronic B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leukemia. The VA states that "Veterans exposed to herbicides while serving in Vietnam and other areas will have an easier path to access quality health care and qualify for disability compensation."

The regulation is subject to a 60-day review period before implementation. After the review period, the VA can begin paying benefits for new claims and may award benefits retroactively for earlier periods. According to a press release from the VA, veterans who served in Vietnam anytime during the period beginning January 9, 1962, and ending on May 7, 1975, are presumed to have been exposed to herbicides. the VA encourages Vietnam Veterans to submit their applications for access to VA health care and compensation now.

More information from the VA:

• Filing Claims for Presumptive Conditions Based on Herbicide Exposure
• Agent Orange
• Press release: VA Publishes Final Regulation to Aid Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange