Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions List for VA Disability

If you were exposed to Agent Orange during military service, the VA recognizes a specific list of Agent Orange presumptive conditions that qualify for disability compensation without requiring proof of direct causation.

This presumptive status makes it easier for eligible veterans to receive monthly tax-free benefits, as the VA automatically assumes the condition is service connected based on qualifying service and diagnosis.

This guide provides the full Agent Orange presumptive conditions list, explains eligibility requirements, and shows how the VA assigns disability ratings so you can better understand your benefits and claim options.

Key Takeaways

• Exposure to Agent Orange, an herbicide used by the U.S. military in the 1960s, has since been linked to various health conditions in exposed veterans. 

• If you have a current diagnosis of one of these presumptive conditions for Agent Orange, you don’t need to prove exposure caused your illness — just confirm your qualifying service and current diagnosis. 

• With the addition of the VA PACT Act, conditions like hypertension and several types of cancer are now included on the VA presumptive conditions list, broadening eligibility for many veterans. 

• Even with presumptive status, detailed medical records help secure the highest possible VA disability rating based on the severity of your symptoms. 

What is Agent Orange?

Agent Orange was a tactical herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to clear vegetation and deny cover to enemies.  

It contained a toxic chemical called dioxin, which has been linked to various health problems in exposed veterans.  

Exposure typically occurred through spraying operations in Vietnam from 1962 to 1971. However, Agent Orange also affected military personnel in other locations, including the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Laos, Cambodia, and Guam, as well as those who served on certain aircraft. 

What is Presumptive Service Connection?

Presumptive service connection means the VA automatically assumes your military service caused certain conditions if you meet specific criteria, such as serving in a qualifying location during a defined period.  

For Agent Orange presumptive conditions, eligibility often requires service in Vietnam, the Korean DMZ, Laos, Cambodia, Guam, or on certain aircraft, plus a current diagnosis of a listed condition. 

Qualifying for Agent Orange Exposure

To qualify for VA disability compensation and benefits for Agent Orange presumptive conditions, you must have served in certain locations at specific times when Agent Orange was used or stored.  

This includes: 

• The Republic of Vietnam, aboard a U.S. military vessel that operated in the inland waterways of Vietnam, or on a vessel operating not more than 12 nautical miles seaward from the demarcation line of the waters of Vietnam and Cambodia between Jan. 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975 

• Any U.S. or Royal Thai military base in Thailand from Jan. 9, 1962, through June 30, 1976 

• Laos from Dec. 1, 1965, through Sept. 30, 1969 

• Cambodia at Mimot or Krek, Kampong Cham Province from April 16, 1969, through April 30, 1969 

• Guam or American Samoa or in the territorial waters off Guam or American Samoa from Jan. 9, 1962, through July 31, 1980 

• Johnston Atoll or on a ship that called at Johnston Atoll from Jan. 1, 1972, through Sept. 30, 1977 

• In or near the Korean DMZ for any length of time between Sept. 1, 1967, and Aug. 31, 1971 

• In an Air Force unit location where a C-123 aircraft with traces of Agent Orange was assigned, and had repeated contact with this aircraft due to your flight, ground, or medical duties 

• You were involved in transporting, testing, storing, or other uses of Agent Orange during your military service 

Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions List

Below is a comprehensive list of the VA-recognized Agent Orange presumptive conditions, including information on the condition and a brief overview of the VA rating. 

AL Amyloidosis

AL amyloidosis is a rare disease that occurs when an abnormal protein called amyloid builds up in organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, or nerves, affecting their function. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% under diagnostic code (DC) 7717 when primary amyloidosis is present, with potential additional ratings for organ dysfunction residuals like heart, kidney, or nerve involvement. 

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer starts in the cells lining the bladder, often as urothelial carcinoma, and can cause blood in the urine or frequent urination. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active cancer or treatment under DC 7528 (malignant neoplasms of the genitourinary system), continuing for 6 months after treatment ends, then reevaluated based on residuals such as urinary dysfunction, infections, or renal impairment. 

Chronic B-Cell Leukemias (including CLL)

This includes chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a cancer of white blood cells that can lead to swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and infections. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active illness or treatment under DC 7703 (leukemia), with asymptomatic early-stage CLL often at 0%; post-active phase ratings depend on residuals like anemia, frequent infections, or hematologic impairment. 

Chloracne (or Similar Acneform Disease)

Chloracne is an acne-like skin condition caused by chemical exposure, featuring cysts, blackheads, and scarring, often on the face and neck. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7829 (or analogous to 7806 dermatitis) based on extent and depth of skin involvement (e.g., 30% rating if 40% or more of your face/neck is affected, 20% rating for intertriginous areas, 10% rating otherwise), requiring at least 10% disabling within one year of exposure. 

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels that can cause fatigue, thirst, and nerve damage over time. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7913 from 10% if easily managed up to 100% for severe cases that require insulin or frequent hospitalizations, with separate ratings possible for related complications. 

Hodgkin Lymphoma (Hodgkin Disease)

Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system starting in B cells, often causing swollen lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active illness or treatment under DC 7709, continuing with a mandatory exam six months post-treatment; afterward rated on residuals such as lymph node removal, immune suppression, or systemic impairment. 

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension is elevated blood pressure that strains the heart and arteries, increasing risks for heart disease and stroke; it often shows no symptoms. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7101 from 10% to 60% based on blood pressure readings (diastolic/systolic levels) and evidence of end-organ damage or history of hypertensive complications. 

Related: Hypertension VA Rating Guide

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland that doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7903 at 100% if presenting as myxedema crisis (with cold intolerance, weakness, cardiac/mental issues), continuing for six months post-stabilization. Otherwise, rated at 30% initially for six months post-diagnosis, then based on residuals like fatigue, metabolic issues, or complications. 

Ischemic Heart Disease

Ischemic heart disease, or myocardial ischemia, happens when reduced blood flow to the heart causes chest pain and can lead to heart attacks. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7005 (or analogous) from 10% to 100% based on residuals such as cardiac hypertrophy, congestive heart failure, angina, or METs level of functional impairment. 

Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS)

MGUS involves abnormal plasma cells producing faulty antibodies, raising risks for blood cancers like multiple myeloma; it often has no symptoms. 

VA Rating: Typically rated at 0% as it’s asymptomatic and may precede other conditions (analogous to DC 7712 for smoldering multiple myeloma), unless symptomatic residuals develop warranting rating under related conditions. 

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow, causing bone pain, anemia, and kidney issues as faulty cells crowd out healthy ones. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% for symptomatic multiple myeloma under DC 7712, continuing for five years post-diagnosis with mandatory exam; afterward rated on residuals like bone lesions, anemia, or renal impairment. 

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, often starting in B or T cells, leading to swollen nodes, fatigue, and infections. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active disease, treatment, or indolent phase under DC 7715, continuing for two years beyond treatment with mandatory exam; thereafter rated on residuals like immune suppression, lymph node issues, or systemic effects. 

Parkinson Disease and Parkinsonism

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder causing tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement due to dopamine loss; parkinsonism refers to similar symptoms from various causes. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 8004 (paralysis agitans) with a minimum 30% for motor impairment (tremors, rigidity, gait issues), up to 100% depending on overall severity of motor symptoms and functional loss. 

Peripheral Neuropathy, Early-Onset

Peripheral neuropathy damages nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness, often in the hands and feet. It must be at least 10% disabling within one year of exposure. 

VA Rating: Rated under peripheral nerve codes (e.g., DC 8510–8720, such as DC 8520  for sciatic) from 10% to 80%, or higher per limb, based on degree of incomplete/complete paralysis, sensory loss, motor weakness, or neuritis/neuralgia, requiring at least 10% disabling within one year of exposure. 

Porphyria Cutanea Tarda

Porphyria cutanea tarda causes skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to blisters, redness, and scarring on exposed areas like hands and face. It must be at least 10% disabling within one year of exposure. 

VA Rating: Rated under DC 7815 (bullous disorders) or skin formula from 10% to 60% based on systemic therapy duration (e.g., 60% if constant systemic therapy for longer than 12 months) and extent of skin lesions/scarring. 

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and may cause urinary issues or blood in semen. It’s one of the most common cancers in men. 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active cancer or treatment under DC 7528, continuing for six months post-treatment with mandatory exam; afterward rated on residuals like urinary obstruction, infections, erectile dysfunction, or renal issues. 

Respiratory Cancers (Including Lung Cancer)

Respiratory cancers affect the lungs, larynx, trachea, or bronchus, often causing persistent cough, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. Covered respiratory cancers include: 

• Lung cancer 

• Cancer of the trachea 

• Cancer of the larynx  

• Cancer of the bronchus 

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active disease or treatment under DC 6819 (or analogous for malignant neoplasms), with post-treatment reevaluation on residuals such as reduced lung function, obstruction, or metastases. 

Soft Tissue Sarcomas (Other Than Excluded Types)

Soft tissue sarcomas are rare cancers starting in muscles, fat, or connective tissues, often presenting as a painless lump. They include, but are not limited to: 

• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (including fibrosarcomatous variations) 

• Fibrosarcoma 

• Leiomyosarcoma 

• Liposarcoma 

• Malignant fibrous histiocytoma 

• Myxofibrosarcoma 

• Rhabdomyosarcoma 

• Soft tissue sarcoma of any histological type, excluding osteosarcoma (bone cancer), chondrosarcoma (cartilage cancer), Kaposi’s sarcoma, and mesothelioma

VA Rating: Rated at 100% during active disease or treatment under DC 5329 (or analogous), continuing for six months post-therapy if no recurrence; thereafter rated on residuals like local tissue damage, functional loss, or pain. 

NOTE: Your actual rating depends on compensation and pension (C&P) exam results, medical records, and how the condition impacts daily life/work. If you’re filing or appealing, strong medical evidence of severity is essential (even for presumptives) to maximize your rating. 

Agent Orange–Related Benefits for Children

The VA recognizes certain birth defects among veterans’ children are related to the veteran’s service in Vietnam or Korea, particularly spina bifida. Spina bifida is a condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly in utero. 

VA Rating: Since this condition impacts the child of the veteran, it’s rated differently than a traditional VA disability claim. Instead, you’ll submit an Application for Benefits for a Qualifying Veteran’s Child Born with Disabilities (VA Form 21-0304). Benefits can include compensation, health care, and job training. 

The Value of a DBQ

A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a standardized form completed by a medical professional. The form will include information about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, and how they’re related to your military service. 

There are separate DBQs depending on your condition, and they often serve to strengthen the medical evidence necessary to win your VA disability claim. 

• Related: What is a VA DBQ?

VA Ratings for Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions

VA disability ratings for Agent Orange presumptive conditions are assigned under the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities and depend on the applicable diagnostic code and severity of the condition. 

For example, diabetes type 2 might rate 20% if managed with diet and medication, but higher if insulin is required. Conditions like cancers are often rated at 100% during active treatment.  

What Evidence Do I Need to Submit for My Agent Orange Presumptive Claim?

For a presumptive claim, you primarily need: 

• Proof of service in a qualifying location 

• A current medical diagnosis of the condition 

• Records showing the condition’s severity for VA rating purposes 

Note: No service-connection evidence is required for VA-recognized presumptive conditions, but if your service location isn’t presumptive, you will need proof of direct exposure and a nexus statement linking your current diagnosis to that exposure.

Medical Evidence Wins VA Claims

Did you know that a lack of medical evidence is the #1 reason VA disability claims are denied?  

Medical evidence is crucial for VA raters reviewing a disability claim.  

Telemedica provides solutions for veterans looking to bolster their claims through high-quality medical evidence that wins claims!  

Schedule your 20-minute consultation and learn how to get the supporting medical evidence you need to strengthen your claim.

Conclusion

Agent Orange presumptive conditions make it easier for eligible veterans to qualify for VA disability compensation because the VA automatically assumes service connection based on qualifying service and diagnosis. However, your final VA disability rating depends on the severity of your condition, supporting medical records, and clear documentation of symptoms and functional limitations.

Even with presumptive status, strong medical evidence remains one of the most important factors in securing the highest possible VA rating. Detailed medical evaluations, diagnostic findings, and properly completed documentation can directly impact your compensation outcome.

Understanding your eligibility and ensuring your condition is fully documented can help you get the highest possible VA compensation and benefits you earned through your service.

FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

Are skin cancers presumptive conditions for Agent Orange disability?

No, skin cancers (including melanoma and non-melanoma types like basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma) are not on the VA’s list of presumptive conditions for Agent Orange exposure. The VA does recognize specific skin-related conditions like chloracne (or similar acneform diseases) and porphyria cutanea tarda as presumptive, but these are not forms of skin cancer. 

Is bladder cancer a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure?

Yes, bladder cancer is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure. If you have a current diagnosis of bladder cancer and qualifying service with presumed exposure, the VA presumes the diagnosis is related to your service. This qualifies you for disability compensation. 

Is CLL related to Agent Orange presumptive conditions?

Yes, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a presumptive condition. The VA includes it under the broader category of chronic B-cell leukemias (which covers CLL, hairy-cell leukemia, and other related chronic B-cell leukemias). Qualifying veterans with CLL automatically get the presumption. 

Is COPD a presumptive condition for Agent Orange?

No, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure. The VA’s presumptive list for Agent Orange focuses on specific cancers (like respiratory cancers, including lung cancer), diabetes, heart disease, and others, but COPD is not included. (Note: COPD can be presumptive under other exposures, like burn pits via the PACT Act, but not for Agent Orange.) 

What if my condition isn’t on the Agent Orange presumptive conditions list?

If your condition isn’t on the VA presumptive list, you can still file a claim. However, you may need additional evidence linking it to Agent Orange exposure.