The Board has determined that the Veteran's low back disorder and lung disorder (COPD) are not service-connected. The low back disorder is denied due to lack of in-service injury or disease, while the lung disorder is denied as not related to asbestos exposure during service.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found no evidence linking the current COPD to asbestos exposure during service and opined that it was more likely secondary to smoking. The Board also noted a lack of in-service back injuries and no diagnosis within one year post-service for any lumbar spine disorder.
- Claimed conditions
- Low Back Disorder, Lung Disorder (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- July 6, 2017
- Citation
- 1725735
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 1725735.
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
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- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew his appeals for higher ratings in excess of 10 percent for his service-connected right knee disability and low back disorder. As a result, the cases are dismissed.
- Denied
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- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claims for service connection for right hip and low back disorders due to potential errors in duty to assist. Additional medical opinions are needed to address causation.
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