The Board found that the cause of the Veteran's death was coronary artery disease, ischemic cardiomyopathy, severe peripheral vascular disease, and chronic renal failure. These conditions were not caused by any incident of service, including probable asbestos exposure in service.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner determined that the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease causing the heart damage leading to ischemic cardiomyopathy was not caused by or resulted from the Veteran's probable asbestos exposure in service. The COPD was found more likely due to smoking history and less likely related to asbestos exposure.
- Claimed conditions
- Coronary artery disease, Ischemic cardiomyopathy, Severe peripheral vascular disease, Chronic renal failure
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 18, 2016
- Citation
- 1620339
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 1620339.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
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- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected PTSD has prevented him from securing or following substantially gainful employment since September 27, 2010. Additionally, he is in receipt of a 60 percent disability rating for coronary artery disease, which meets the criteria for SMC at the housebound rate.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for HISA benefits is granted as the modification requested (a barrier free, roll-in shower) falls within the scope of HISA and addresses his medical need due to his service-connected coronary artery disease.
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