Chronic bronchitis decisions — 2003

The Board has determined that the veteran's death was not caused by VA medical treatment, and therefore compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 is denied.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has been submitted sufficient to reopen the veteran's claims for service connection for residuals of pneumonia (to include bronchitis) and contusions of both heels.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for special monthly pension based on need for regular aid and attendance or being housebound, finding that she does not meet the criteria due to her physical abilities and mobility.

The Board denied service connection for the cause of the veteran's death, finding that his fatal colon cancer was not caused by any incident of service or by his established service-connected conditions.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for service connection for chronic-asthmatic bronchitis/restrictive defect, finding that it was not incurred or aggravated by active service directly or due to an undiagnosed illness.

The Board denied the veteran's claim of service connection for obstructive lung disease, including emphysema and bronchitis, claimed as due to mustard gas exposure. The evidence did not support a finding that the veteran was exposed to mustard gas during service.

The Board found no evidence of a nexus between the veteran's COPD with bronchitis and asthma and his active service, including exposure to asbestos or Agent Orange. The claim for service connection was denied.