Asbestosis decisions — 2003

The veteran's asbestosis was granted a 10 percent evaluation from October 21, 1996 to September 13, 2000. From September 14, 2000 to May 2, 2001, the veteran received a staged evaluation of 60 percent. Since May 3, 2001, he has not been granted an evaluation in excess of 10 percent.

The Board has granted a 60 percent rating for the veteran's service-connected asbestosis, which is currently rated at 30 percent. The evidence shows that the veteran's FVC measurement decreased to 53 percent of predicted value in February 2002, meeting the criteria for a 60 percent evaluation under Diagnostic Code 6833.

The Board dismissed the appeals for an evaluation in excess of 10 percent for pleural plaques with interstitial changes, asbestosis and silicosis, and the propriety of ratings assigned to hemorrhoids and anal fissure.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for residuals of exposure to asbestos and Agent Orange, finding no evidence of current disabilities or a link between service and these exposures.