VA Expands PACT Act Disability Compensation to 3 Additional Cancer Types

Since August 10, 2022, the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has covered environmental-related illnesses incurred during military service through the PACT Act. According to a VA News press release, the VA added 3 new cancer types to "the list of presumed service-connected disabilities due to military environmental exposure under the PACT Act.”

The new cancer types covered by the PACT Act include male breast cancer, urethral cancer, and cancer of the paraurethral glands. Under the PACT Act, veterans diagnosed with any of these cancer types (or other illnesses covered under the PACT Act) during their service or after separation are eligible for disability compensation.

The release states that the policy “for eligible Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans who deployed to Afghanistan, Somalia, Dijibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Uzbekistan, and the entire Southwest Asia theater of operations.” The aim of this expansion is to ensure that veterans exposed to toxic environments during their service receive the necessary care and benefits. Since the bill was enacted, the VA has provided over $5.7 billion to veterans.

According to the VA News website, “Veterans and survivors can apply or learn more about the PACT Act by visiting VA.gov/PACT or by calling 1-800-MYVA411.”

Reference

VA extends presumptions of service connection for three new cancer types. News release. VA News. Published June 14, 2024. Accessed July 2, 2024. https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-extends-presumptions-of-service-connection-for-three-new-cancer-types/