Cancer

There are numerous forms of cancer that have been associated with Agent Orange exposure or the exposure to radiation. If you were exposed to radiation or herbicides and you have a form of cancer, then you need to investigate whether or not this cancer is related to the exposure. In cases not involving the radiation or herbicide exposures, the normal analysis for service-connection will be applied. You would still need to establish an in-service event, a current disability, and a link between the two. Keep in mind, however, if you were exposed to Agent Orange and you have a form of cancer that is not listed on the list of diseases associated with Agent Orange, you can still file the claim and prove the claim if you can establish that not withstanding the fact that this disease is not on the list, it still could only have come from exposure to Agent Orange.

Another area of current concern involves individuals exposed to the contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune. The contaminants in the Camp Lejeune water are associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancers. If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune and you have some type of cancer, then you must determine whether or not you have a valid claim. Military service can often times expose one to other toxins, which can be carcinogenic. There are military bases that have been designated as Superfund sites and exposure to these toxins must be considered as a basis for a later cancer diagnosis.