WASHINGTON – Although it’s taken more than one year of review, the
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is considering adding six new
suspected diseases to its list of illnesses that are caused by exposure
to Agent Orange.
The new diseases include bladder cancer, Parkinsonism (Parkinson-like symptoms), hypothyroidism, stroke and hypertension.
The possible additions were announced in November by U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs David J. Shulkin.
“After thoroughly reviewing the National Academy of Medicine latest
report … I have made a decision to further explore new presumptive
conditions for service connection that may ultimately qualify for
disability compensation,” Shulkin said.
Veterans Affairs has recognized certain cancers and other health
problems as suspected diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure and
other herbicides during military service. When included, veterans and
their survivors may be eligible for benefits for the diseases.
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