Blog

At Comerford Law Office, we understand just how frustrating and overwhelming it is to see your claims for VA benefits denied, especially when they involve illnesses linked to Agent Orange exposure. For many veterans, these benefits are not merely financial—they are a recognition of your sacrifices and a path to healthcare, stability, and dignity. If your claim for Agent Orange-related compensation has been denied, know this—you are not alone, and you don’t have to fight this battle alone. At Comerford Law Office, we are here to help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the benefits you deserve. Understanding Agent Orange and Its Effects Agent Orange was a herbicide used during the Vietnam War to defoliate forests and expose enemy hiding spots. Unfortunately, it also exposed thousands of US service members to harmful chemicals that have been linked to various health conditions, including certain cancers and other chronic illnesses. In 1991, Congress passed a law acknowledging the link between Agent Orange exposure and these medical issues, making veterans eligible for compensation and healthcare from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Common Reasons for Denial Before starting the appeals process, it helps to understand why claims are often denied. At times, the VA may argue that you didn’t sufficiently prove exposure to Agent Orange or that your illness isn’t on the presumptive list of conditions acknowledged by the VA. Other denials hinge on inadequate medical documentation, errors in claims processing, or a failure to establish an undeniable connection between your military service and your diagnosis. While these denials may seem disheartening, they’re far from the end of the road. A Guide to the Appeals Process If your benefits claim has been denied, the VA provides several appeals options. Here’s how you can move forward effectively: Choose the Right Appeal Type – After a denial, you have three primary pathways to appeal, depending on the specifics of your situation. Higher-Level Review – This option involves requesting a senior claim reviewer to reexamine your case without any new evidence. If you suspect a clear claim processing error, this pathway may be your best bet. Supplemental Claim – If new and relevant evidence—like updated medical records or expert opinions—has come to light, a Supplemental Claim is the most appropriate route. Board of Veterans’ Appeals – For cases requiring further scrutiny, you can appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. You can select a direct review (no new evidence), submit new evidence, or opt for a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge. Meet Critical Deadlines – Deadlines are vital in the appeals process. You have one year from the date of your denial letter to file for a Higher-Level Review or Board Appeal. Missing this window means your only avenue is filing a Supplemental Claim, which requires new evidence. Gather Strong Evidence – Documentation is your strongest ally. Start by collecting thorough records that link your diagnosis to Agent Orange exposure. This may include medical evidence detailing your illness, proof of service records indicating you were in Vietnam or other designated areas, and expert witness statements if your condition is not on the VA’s presumptive list. Avoid Common Pitfalls – Omitting documentation, missing deadlines, or failing to address specific VA concerns can significantly weaken your case. Working with an experienced attorney ensures every element of your appeal is presented effectively, leaving no room for error. Tips for Strengthening Your Case Build a Timeline of Service and Diagnosis: Clearly outline your military service, including dates and locations, to highlight when and where Agent Orange exposure likely occurred. Know the Presumptive Conditions List: Familiarize yourself with conditions that the VA links to Agent Orange, such as Parkinson’s disease, specific cancers, and Type 2 diabetes. Seek Medical Opinions: If your diagnosis isn’t presumptive, you’ll need compelling medical evidence, including expert opinions linking your condition to herbicide exposure. Work With a Legal Advocate: Navigating VA appeals alone can feel like navigating a maze. Partnering with a lawyer experienced in VA claims maximizes your chance of success. Why Choose Comerford Law Office? With decades of experience helping veterans and their families, Comerford Law Office is deeply committed to getting you the compensation and justice you deserve. We offer compassionate, personalized representation that makes a difference. From thoroughly reviewing your claims to assembling the strongest possible case, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way. Denied claims can be discouraging, but giving up is not an option. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s begin reclaiming the benefits that honor your service and dedication to our country. You don’t have to face this fight alone. We’re here for you.

Agent Orange, a tactical herbicide used extensively during the Vietnam War, has been linked to numerous health issues among veterans. One significant condition that has garnered attention is Type 2 diabetes. Understanding this connection can help affected veterans seek necessary medical and legal assistance. At Comerford Law Office, we aim to provide veterans with the information and support they need. The Connection Between Agent Orange and Type 2 Diabetes Exposure to Agent Orange has been scientifically linked to Type 2 diabetes. Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Korean Demilitarized Zone, Thai Air Force bases, or on C-123 aircraft are particularly at risk. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes this link and has included Type 2 diabetes on its list of conditions that qualify for a presumptive service connection. This means that veterans do not need to provide evidence linking their diabetes directly to their military service; proof of service during a qualifying period and medical records demonstrating the condition’s severity are sufficient. Statistics and Health Implications Type 2 diabetes affects approximately 10% of adults in the United States, with 95% of these cases being Type 2. While often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and inactivity, other risk factors like exposure to Agent Orange play a crucial role. Veterans exposed to this herbicide face an increased risk of developing not only diabetes but also secondary conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy, and depression. Legal Precedents and Benefits The VA provides several benefits for veterans suffering from illnesses linked to Agent Orange exposure, including monthly monetary compensation, free medical treatments, and additional benefits for secondary service-connected disabilities. These benefits aim to support veterans financially and medically, acknowledging the profound impact of their service-related health issues. For instance, veterans with diabetes caused by Agent Orange exposure may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits if their condition prevents them from maintaining gainful employment. Additionally, veterans’ families may also receive benefits if birth defects are linked to the veteran’s exposure. Accessing Resources and Support If you believe your Type 2 diabetes stems from Agent Orange exposure, it’s vital to seek legal and medical support promptly. Begin by gathering your medical records and proof of service. Consulting with a highly experienced veterans benefits lawyer can help navigate the VA claim process and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact Comerford Law Office At Comerford Law Office, LLC, we are dedicated to advocating for veterans’ rights. Our experienced team, led by Attorney James R. Comerford, understands the challenges veterans face and is committed to helping you secure the benefits you’re entitled to. If you have questions about VA benefits or need assistance with your claim, contact us for a consultation. Let us help you navigate this complex process and achieve the support you need for a better quality of life.

Service in the Vietnam War took a significant toll on the physical and mental health of many veterans. The effects of this service often linger, manifesting as various disabilities that can dramatically affect a veteran’s daily life. Understanding these disabilities, their causes, symptoms, and impacts is essential to ensuring that affected veterans receive the care and benefits they need and deserve. Common Disabilities Linked to Service in the Vietnam War Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Among veterans, especially those from the Vietnam War, PTSD can result from exposure to combat, witnessing death or injury, or other traumatic experiences. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. This potentially debilitating condition can significantly impair a veteran’s ability to function in their daily life. Illness from Agent Orange Exposure Agent Orange was a herbicide used during the Vietnam War to clear forest cover. Exposure to this chemical has been linked to several health problems, including various cancers, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Symptoms and severity can vary widely, but all significantly affect the quality of life for impacted veterans. Gulf War Syndrome This syndrome refers to a collection of potentially disabling symptoms experienced by veterans of the Gulf War, which occurred shortly after the Vietnam War. Symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, joint pain, indigestion, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory disorders, and memory problems. Despite its name, Gulf War Syndrome can also affect Vietnam War veterans due to similar environmental exposures. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) TBI is a significant head injury that affects the brain’s normal functioning. In veterans, TBI can occur from combat-related incidents, such as explosions or falls. Symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, memory problems, mood changes, and difficulty with concentration. TBI can have a profound influence on a veteran’s ability to work or perform daily tasks. Other Physical Impairments Physical impairments such as loss of hearing, vision, or limb are common among veterans. These disabilities can result from combat injuries, exposure to loud noises, or accidents during service. Each of these impairments can significantly impact a veteran’s mobility, independence, and quality of life. How Comerford Law Office Can Help At Comerford Law Office, LLC, the needs of veterans and their families are placed at the forefront. Attorney James Comerford, a member of the National Organization of Veterans Advocates (NOVA), has a proven devotion to protecting the rights of disabled veterans and helping them acquire the benefits they deserve. From helping veterans understand the VA benefits available to them, assisting with the application process, or appealing a denial of benefits, Comerford Law Office is here every step of the way. Our firm navigates the new legacy VA appeals process for disability claims, which now includes options for Supplemental Claims, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal. The Comerford Law Office works diligently to ensure that veterans receive the compensation they need in a timely manner. Contact Us If you or a loved one served in the Vietnam War and are now dealing with a disability due to that service, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. The Comerford Law Office, LLC, is committed to fighting for the benefits you rightfully deserve. Contact us today to start the process towards better support and care.

Agent Orange is a herbicide that the United States military used during the Vietnam War. It was named after the orange-striped barrels in which it was shipped and was a mixture of two herbicides: 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T. The herbicide was used extensively in Vietnam between 1961 and 1971 to clear out the dense jungle foliage that was used as cover by the enemy forces. The use of Agent Orange has a controversial history, with many health issues being linked to its use. While it was intended to be a defoliant, it was also highly toxic to humans, and the military personnel who were tasked with spraying the herbicide often did not wear proper protective gear. The herbicide was also sprayed in areas where civilians lived, leading to widespread exposure. Anyone who was exposed to Agent Orange should discuss related health issues with a VA attorney immediately. Effects of Agent Orange In the years following the war, reports began to surface about the negative effects of Agent Orange. Veterans who had been exposed to the herbicide reported a variety of health issues, including cancers, respiratory problems, and skin diseases. In addition, the children of veterans who had been exposed to Agent Orange were born with birth defects at a higher rate than the general population. In response to these reports, the U.S. government conducted several studies to determine the health effects of Agent Orange exposure. The most notable of these was the Ranch Hand Study, which followed a group of veterans who had been involved in the spraying of Agent Orange in Vietnam. The study found that these veterans had higher rates of cancer and other health problems than the general population. In 1991, the U.S. government passed the Agent Orange Act, which provided compensation to veterans who had been exposed to the herbicide and were suffering from health issues as a result. The act also provided funding for research into the health effects of Agent Orange exposure. The effects of Agent Orange are not limited to Vietnam. The herbicide was also used in other countries, including Laos and Cambodia, and the health effects of exposure continue to be felt today. In addition, the herbicide has had long-lasting effects on the environment, with contaminated soil and water sources still present in many areas. Some efforts have tried to address the legacy of Agent Orange in recent years. The United States and Vietnam have worked together to clean up contaminated areas and provide assistance to those who have been affected by the herbicide. In addition, organizations such as the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin have worked to raise awareness of the issue and provide support to those affected by Agent Orange exposure. Speak with a Veterans Rights Attorney in Illinois The history of Agent Orange is a tragic one. While it was intended to be a tool to aid the military effort in Vietnam, its widespread use led to significant health and environmental issues. The effects of Agent Orange are still being felt today, and it serves as a reminder of the long-lasting consequences of war. The Comerford Law Office can help veterans seeking benefits for Agent Orange. Consult with our office today.

It can be very difficult to “prove” that a medical condition is related to a specific event. For example, the tobacco companies would routinely question plaintiffs concerning their jobs, exposure to powerlines, or family histories of cancer, even when it was well-established that smoking causes cancer. Since there is no way to be medically certain that a specific toxin was the sole cause of cancer, scientists use statistics to determine the rate of cancer among those who smoke against those who do not. The same is true of Agent Orange. Those exposed to the toxic herbicide known as Agent Orange during the Vietnam or Korean War are more likely to have certain types of cancers or other ailments than the general public. For that reason, if you are a veteran with one of these ailments and you can prove Agent Orange exposure, the VA may conclude that Agent Orange is the cause and award benefits on that basis. Conditions Associated With Agent Orange Exposure The VA will assume that specific conditions are linked to a veteran’s service for certain disability claims. These are known as presumptive claims. In other words, all that is required is to show that you were exposed to Agent Orange and now have a particular condition. The conditions listed below are currently associated with presumptive claims for Agent Orange exposure. Cancers Associated With Agent Orange Exposure Bladder cancer Chronic B-cell leukemias Multiple myeloma Prostate cancer Hodgkin’s Disease Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma Respiratory/lung cancer Soft tissue sarcomas Non-Cancers Associated With Agent Orange Exposure AL amyloidosis Chloracne Type 2 diabetes Hypothyroidism Ischemic heart disease Lou Gherig’s disease (ALS) Parkinson’s disease Early-onset peripheral neuropathy Porphyria cutanea tarda Other conditions may also be related to Agent Orange exposure but are not considered “presumptive.” You would have to establish medical evidence for a link between the condition and Agent Orange exposure. However, just because your condition is not on the VA’s list of presumptive Agent Orange-linked disorders, it does not mean you cannot recover benefits. Special Considerations Agent Orange is a known risk factor for birth defects. A child born to a former soldier exposed to Agent Orange may be able to recover benefits based on any birth defects they suffered as a result of their parent’s exposure. Spina bifida is a common complication of children born to military families that served in Vietnam or the Korean war. If the VA does not list your current disability as a possible complication of Agent Orange exposure, you should still consider filing a claim. Each year, new conditions are being approved that may have been denied in the past. We know that Agent Orange does considerable damage to the human body, and the way that damage manifests can be unpredictable. Talk to a Chicago VA Disability Benefits Attorney Today The Comerford Law Office, LLC has decades of experience helping U.S. veterans prove their Agent Orange exposure claims. Call today to schedule an appointment and we can begin discussing your options immediately.

Late on Tuesday night, June 25, President Trump signed into law H.R.299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019, marking an end to the now-famous effort for Vietnam-era naval veterans to obtain disability benefits for conditions related to Agent Orange exposure. For over a decade, versions of this bill have been defeated and stalled at various stages of the legislative process. Now, with the bill finally being signed into law, disability benefits may now be extended to an estimated 90,000 veterans nationwide. The bill addresses “Blue Water” naval veterans, those who served offshore during the Vietnam War. These veterans are presumed to have been exposed to dangerous defoliants — including Agent Orange — at some point during the conflict. A large body of research has tied these chemicals to various diseases and conditions, including several forms of cancer. The law indicates 15 diseases which will be covered: Hodgkin’s disease, light chain amyloidosis, chloracne, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, porphyria cutanea tarda, prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, respiratory cancers, Parkinson’s disease early-onset peripheral neuropathy, soft-tissue sarcoma, type-2 diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease, chronic B-cell leukemias, And spina bifidea for the children of veterans serving in this area. The cost of the expanded benefits, which was the main point of objection for some lawmakers in the past, is estimated to be between $1.1 billion (according to the Congressional Budget Office) and $5.5 billion (according to the VA). Funding is expected to draw from increased fees on home loans for certain veterans. A Long Fight Throughout the 90s, a growing body of evidence suggested a connection between various diseases and cancers, and exposure to chemicals like Agent Orange. This eventually culminated in legislation which now offers benefits to veterans who were exposed to these chemicals and who are currently suffering from related symptoms. However, this legislation excluded Blue Water veterans under the presumption that they were not within a close enough proximity to the chemicals to be affected. In the following decades, various efforts to modify the existing laws were all defeated. This most recent series of events was instigated in January of 2019, when the US Court of Appeals decided in favor of Alfred Procopio Jr., a naval veteran who was suing for benefits denied under the current law. With this decision, and the subsequent decision by the Department of Justice not to appeal the ruling, the door has been opened to naval veterans hoping to receive benefits. Already, the VA is processing related naval veterans claims, and this bill represents an important step towards officially legislating the process and protecting it from future legal action. Moving Forward After an extensive legal battle, the door is now opening to expanded benefits for tens of thousands of Vietnam naval veterans. Veterans who served offshore during the Vietnam War — and who suffer from one of the conditions listed above — should be able to apply for VA disability benefits. This victory has been decades in the making, and thousands now wait anxiously for the policy to be fully implemented. If you or a loved one are a naval veteran hoping to secure VA benefits for an illness on the list above, finding reliable legal counsel can be an important step toward helping you file your claim properly, and can help you better understand your options under current VA law. The Comerford Law Office, LLC, has extensive experience handling veterans disability claims and has helped many veterans obtain benefits for the first time or modify a previously issued disability rating. If you are considering filing for veteran’s disability benefits, get in contact with The Comerford Law Office, LLC, today to learn more.

Although the Vietnam War ended nearly a half-century ago, many veterans who served in that conflict continue to suffer from the effects. For example, many veterans are still dealing with their exposure to the toxic herbicide known as Agent Orange. In 1991, Congress adopted the Agent Orange Act, which created a legal presumption of a “service connection” for veterans who developed certain diseases while serving in Vietnam. In plain English, the law assumes that if a Vietnam veteran later developed a listed disease, it was assumed to be the result of Agent Orange exposure, unless there was “affirmative evidence” to the contrary. No Legal Distinction Between Inland, Offshore Territorial Waters of Vietnam The Agent Orange Act specifically covers military personnel who “served in the Republic of Vietnam” between January 1962 and May 1975. The “Republic of Vietnam” refers to what was formerly called South Vietnam. According to a recent decision by a federal appeals court, the Republic of Vietnam included not just the land territory and internal waters of former South Vietnam, but also its offshore waters. More to the point, the Court determined the Agent Orange Act covers veterans who served aboard ships but who never physically set foot in Vietnam. The plaintiff, in this case, Procopio v. Wilkie, served aboard the U.S.S. Intrepid from 1964 to 1967 while a member of the U.S. Navy. In the summer of 1966, the Navy deployed the Intrepid to the offshore waters of the Republic of Vietnam. Nearly 30 years later, the plaintiff developed diabetes mellitus and prostate cancer, both of which are known conditions related to Agent Orange exposure. The plaintiff sought benefits under the Agent Orange Act. The VA denied the plaintiff’s request, however, on the grounds that was never present “on the landmass or the inland waters of Vietnam during service.” The plaintiff appealed the VA’s decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC. On January 29, 2019, the Court held by a vote of 9-2 that the VA’s reading of the law was incorrect. There was no dispute the law covered veterans who “served in the Republic of Vietnam.” Contrary to the VA’s position, the “Republic of Vietnam” also included its offshore territorial waters. This is not exactly a surprise to anyone who understands the basics of international law. Under a 1982 United Nations convention, the “territorial waters” of a given sovereign state extends up to 12 nautical miles (roughly 13.8 miles) from the low-water mark of the country’s shoreline. Anything within this 12-nautical mile zone is therefore considered part of the country’s territory, the same as any landmass or internal waters (such as rivers). Given this, the Court here concluded that service onboard a naval vessel parked within the Republic of Vietnam’s territorial waters was, for all intents and purposes, “in the Republic of Vietnam.” The plaintiff was therefore “entitled to a presumption of service connection for his prostate cancer and diabetes mellitus.” Speak with a Dedicated Veterans Benefits Lawyer Today The Federal Circuit’s decision is welcome news for a number of “blue water” veterans who served on offshore vessels during the Vietnam War and developed Agent Orange-related complications as a result. If you need assistance from a qualified veterans benefits lawyer in pursuing a claim related to Agent Orange, contact The Comerford Law Office, LLC today to schedule a free consultation.

Earlier this summer, the House of Representatives unanimously passed HR 299, also known as the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act and forwarded it to the Senate. Upon receiving the bill, the Senate referred it to the Committee on Veterans Affairs and has yet to hold a vote. If passed, this law would allow as many as 90,000 “Blue Water Navy” veterans who served on ships that operated on the coast of the Republic of Vietnam or Cambodia during the Vietnam War to become eligible for VA healthcare and disability compensation for their exposure to defoliants, such as Agent Orange. If you have questions about your own eligibility for VA benefits based on your potential exposure to Agent Orange under both current law and the proposed bill, you should consult with an experienced Agent Orange lawyer who can walk you through the eligibility requirements. Current Law Under current law, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability compensation to veterans who were exposed to dangerous herbicides such as Agent Orange during their military service. Agent Orange, which was made up of a number of tactical herbicides, was used by the U.S. military to remove dense tropical foliage that provided enemy cover in Vietnam and Korea. Unfortunately, it was not until decades later that researchers discovered the link between exposure to Agent Orange and certain deadly diseases. In an effort to simplify the process for receiving compensation for these conditions, the VA instituted a policy by which certain diseases are presumed to be the result of exposure to Agent Orange. Under this presumptive policy, veterans who served in Vietnam or on inland waterways between 1962 and 1975 or in or near the Korean demilitarized zone between 1968 and 1971 are not required to prove that their illness began during or was worsened by military service unless their illness is not included on the list of recognized conditions. One of the few exceptions to this rule applies to blue water veterans suffering from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, who are not required to prove that they actually set foot in Vietnam or provided inland waterway service in order to qualify for disability compensation. Blue Water Veterans Bill If passed, HR 299 would extend the VA’s blue water veterans exception to make disability benefits available to veterans who did not actually serve on land during the Vietnam War, but who patrolled within 12 nautical miles of Cambodia or Vietnam between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975. Although the change would result in tens of thousands of veterans becoming eligible for benefits, many critics have expressed concern over the scientific evidence, or lack thereof, being used to support the bill. For instance, research conducted by the Institute of Medicine showed that Agent Orange is broken down by sunlight within a few hours and that it is unlikely that any particulate residue would have gotten into the open ocean where it could have posed a risk to shipboard crews. How this evidence will be weighed by the Senate remains to be seen, as the bill continues to linger in the Committee on Veteran’s Affairs. The Legal Representation You Deserve To speak with dedicated VA accredited attorney James R. Comerford about whether you or a loved one qualify for Agent Orange disability benefits, please contact The Comerford Law Office, LLC at 312-863-8572.

According to a report in the Military Times, veterans who served on ships during the Vietnam War could soon have an easier time receiving benefits for exposure to Agent Orange. This rule change could make 92,000 veterans eligible for additional benefits, which were stripped from navy veterans in 2002. Proving Exposure Currently, a Vietnam veteran who patrolled inland rivers or served on the ground is assumed to have worked near Agent Orange if they have certain diseases. Accordingly, these veterans are given special status when they file for disability benefits. This status speeds up the process and makes it much easier to receive compensation. However, “blue water veterans” who served on ships are not assumed to have come into contact with defoliants like Agent Orange. Instead, they must prove direct exposure to the chemical in order to have their illness or disability qualified as “service connected.” Given the amount of time that has passed since the Vietnam War, it is nearly impossible for most veterans to ever offer proof of direct exposure. Unfortunately, to receive disability benefits, the disability or illness must be service-connected. Without the presumption, many navy veterans have been unable to secure the benefits they deserve. The Blue Water Veterans Deal Thanks to a new law under consideration by the U.S. Congress, blue water vets will get the same presumption as other veterans. If they have a disease like multiple myeloma cancer, which is presumed to result from Agent Orange exposure, then their illness will be considered service-connected without any additional proof required. As a result, over 90,000 could receive benefits for exposure to Agent Orange. The additional benefits for blue water veterans will cost about one billion dollars, which legislators hope to raise by tacking on a small fee to VA home mortgages. The fee will cost in total about $350 over 10 years. Those servicemembers who are disabled will not pay the fee if they get a VA loan. Passage Possible by Memorial Day Earlier attempts to pass a blue water veterans bill have failed, much to the disappointment of affected veterans. These vets should  be pleased to know that the House Committee voted unanimously to forward the bill for full consideration by the House on May 14, 2018. The bill will need approval from the House and Senate and then be signed into law by President Trump. Many veterans’ groups are optimistic that the bill will ultimately get signed into law, perhaps in time for Memorial Day. Speak to a Chicago Veterans’ Benefits Lawyer Now Disabled veterans and their family members need an experienced veterans’ benefits attorney in their corner who is looking out for them. The veterans’ benefits process is, unfortunately, complicated and drawn out, and many deserving veterans give up before they receive the benefits they are entitled to under the law. At the Comerford Law Office, we will fight for you. Our client testimonials attest to our dedication and commitment to each and every one of our clients. To schedule your free consultation with us to learn more about the services we provide, please call 312-863-8572 or submit this contact form.

Between the years of 1965 and 1970, around 2.6 million U.S. service members were potentially exposed to Agent Orange, a dangerous herbicide that has been linked to a number of deadly illnesses and was used during the Vietnam War. Currently, the VA provides benefits to those veterans who are suffering from one of the listed illnesses and can prove that they served on the ground in Vietnam or on one of its rivers. Unfortunately, research continues to reveal that many illnesses that are not included on the VA’s list can also be caused by exposure to Agent Orange. Most recently, the Institute of Medicine released findings that reveal a possible link between exposure to this herbicide and bladder cancer, high blood pressure, underactive thyroid, and symptoms similar to those experienced by Parkinson’s disease patients. Currently, these illnesses have not been included on the VA’s Agent Orange list, which leaves many veterans struggling to pay medical bills for conditions that were most likely caused by exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. Covered Diseases The VA maintains a list of diseases that are presumed to be caused by exposure to certain chemicals contained in Agent Orange, including: Al Amyloidosis, which is a diseases that affects the tissues and organs; Chronic B-cell Leukemias, which is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells; Chloracne, which is a skin condition that begins manifesting soon after exposure; Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, which is a disease that involves high blood sugar levels caused by an inability to respond to insulin; Hodgkin’s Disease, which is a malignant cancer that manifests as the enlargement of the lymph nodes, liver, and spleen; Ischemic Heart Disease, which is characterized by restricted blood flow to the heart, which in turn, causes chest pain; Multiple Myeloma, which is a cancer of the plasma cells contained in the bone marrow; Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, which is a group of cancers that affects the glands; Parkinson’s Disease, which is a nervous system disorder that affects movement; Peripheral Neuropathy, which causes numbness, tingling, and motor weakness; Porphyria Cutanea Tarda, which is a condition characterized by liver failure and the blistering of skin exposed to the sun; Cancer of the prostate; Cancers of the lung, trachea, bronchus, and larynx; and Soft tissue sarcomas, which is a group of different kinds of cancers that affect the connective tissues and blood and lymph vessels. Veterans who suffer from diseases that do not fall under this list can only begin receiving disability payments if they provide proof that their illness was as likely as not connected to their service in the military. Although a doctor’s opinion is usually considered enough evidence to obtain payment, less than 50 veterans have been able to convince the VA to compensate them for bladder cancer. It is hoped that the newly published research will prompt the VA to begin compensating veterans for conditions like bladder cancer that have been newly linked to exposure to Agent Orange. Adding new conditions to the VA’s list is not unprecedented. In fact, the VA added three diseases to the presumptive list in 2010: Parkinson’s Disease, a certain type of leukemia, and Ischemic Heart Disease. Unfortunately, in this case, the VA has scheduled, but missed a number of deadlines by which they promised action. Contact an Agent Orange Attorney Today If you were exposed to Agent Orange and now suffer from bladder cancer, you need the advice of an attorney who can help you prove that the disease can be linked to your exposure. Please contact our Agent Orange legal team at The Comerford Law Office, LLC by calling 312-863-8572 to learn more.