Lung cancer decisions — 2023

The Board finds that the evidence does not support a higher disability rating for the Veteran's service-connected residuals of lung cancer status post right lobectomy, as his most recent PFT results do not warrant an increase in rating. The AOJ should obtain updated VA treatment records and request the Veteran to provide private treatment information from any providers who have treated him for respiratory conditions.

The Board has determined that a new opinion is needed to address the service connection claims for pancreatic and lung cancer, as the previous opinions did not adequately consider all theories of entitlement raised by the appellant.

The Board denied service connection for colon cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, and skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma of the left forearm and squamous cell carcinoma of the face, nose, and jawline), finding that there was no evidence linking these conditions to service or exposure to herbicides.

The Board has remanded the case due to insufficient information regarding the Veteran's lung disability prior to August 16, 2021. Additional VA examinations are needed to determine the severity of the condition.

The Veteran's lung cancer, diabetes mellitus, and diabetic polyneuropathy of the upper and lower extremities are granted as service-connected due to exposure to herbicides during active duty.

The Board has remanded the claims for lung cancer and cause of death due to potential exposure to herbicide agents during service. The claim will be further developed by requesting verification from the Air Force Historical Research Agency regarding C-123 aircraft used in Vietnam.

The Veteran's lung cancer is granted as service connected due to presumed exposure to herbicide agents under the PACT Act.

The Veteran's lung cancer is being remanded for further development, including obtaining VA and SSA records and a medical opinion regarding whether VA failed to timely diagnose or properly treat the condition.

The Board has determined that the reduction of the rating from 100 percent to 0 percent for residuals of lung cancer, status post lobectomy and cryotherapy, effective November 1, 2018, was proper. The appeal is being remanded due to outstanding private medical records and need for a supplemental statement of the case (SSOC).

The Veteran's lung cancer, bone cancer, and cancer of the lymph nodes are granted service connection due to exposure during the Gulf War. The cause of death is also granted as these conditions were a primary cause.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for colon cancer with partial colectomy, lung cancer residuals, and COPD due to asbestos exposure. Additional development is needed to verify any potential exposure to asbestos during the Veteran's military service.

The Board has remanded the case due to insufficient medical opinions regarding the cause of death and the relationship between CLL and service. The Veteran's lung cancer is being considered, but the specific role of his CLL in causing or contributing to his death remains unclear.

The Board has granted the Veteran's claim for service connection for a respiratory condition, to include lung cancer and chronic bronchitis, as his current diagnosis is related to his conceded in-service asbestos exposure.

The Board has granted service connection for Ischemic Heart Disease and Diabetes Mellitus type II, both due to herbicide exposure. Service connection is also granted for a skin rash disorder, but Lung Cancer remains remanded as there are no recent treatment records available.

The Veteran's brain cancer and lung cancer are granted service connection, with the latter being implicitly found related to his active military service. The Veteran's tinnitus is also granted as secondary to his service-connected brain cancer.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete medical records and the need for additional VA examiner's opinion regarding the cause of death.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection due to unresolved issues regarding his lung disorders, including residuals of lung cancer and obstructive sleep apnea. The VA will obtain confirmation of service on board USS Austin if necessary, and request medical opinions to determine whether these conditions are related to active service, specifically exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for additional VA treatment records and an updated VA examination to assess the severity of the Veteran's lung cancer and residuals since February 1, 2018.

The Board has dismissed the appeal regarding right lower extremity hemiplegia due to lack of adjudication before death. Lung cancer, brain tumor/cancer, left upper and lower extremity hemiplegia, and seizure disorder are now service connected.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claim for service connection for lung cancer due to in-service herbicide agent exposure, as there is insufficient evidence regarding his exposure and a VA examination is needed.