Agent Orange & Colon Cancer: What Veterans Need to Know!

If you are a Veteran who served in the Vietnam War between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, you may have been exposed to Agent Orange, a powerful defoliant used by the U.S. military. 

This chemical has been linked to various health risks, including colon cancer. 

Exposure to Agent Orange can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and unfortunately, there is no specific test for Agent Orange exposure.  

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) presumes exposure if you served on active duty during the time when Agent Orange was heavily used in Vietnam.  

This means that if you served in Vietnam during the specified period, the VA considers your exposure to Agent Orange as presumed, making you eligible for certain benefits and compensation. 

Colon cancer is one of the cancers that experts believe may be caused by Agent Orange exposure.  

As a Veteran who may have been exposed, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions.  

Regular screenings and early detection are essential in identifying colon cancer early and improving treatment outcomes. 

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, and it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.  

It can present with various symptoms that should not be ignored, such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, cramps or abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and colon polyps. 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or have concerns about colon cancer, it is crucial to see your doctor as soon as possible.  

Early detection is key in improving treatment outcomes for colon cancer.  

Your healthcare provider can perform screenings, such as colonoscopy, to detect any abnormalities in the colon and provide appropriate medical care. 

Numerous studies conducted by the American Cancer Institute have found a compelling association between prolonged exposure to Agent Orange and an increased risk of colon cancer.  

Unfortunately, the VA does not recognize colon cancer as presumptively caused by Agent Orange exposure during military service.  

This means that Veterans cannot automatically have colon cancer service-connected solely due to Agent Orange exposure. 

If you believe that your colon cancer is a result of Agent Orange exposure, it is essential to understand the process of seeking recognition and compensation from the VA.  

Typically, Veterans who receive VA disability compensation for cancer caused by Agent Orange exposure have been diagnosed with a recognized cancer by the VA and have submitted sufficient evidence to show either a service connection or a specific cause.  

To demonstrate a specific cause, Veterans can present medical evidence or seek the assistance of an expert opinion. 

Hiring a medical expert who can provide a comprehensive report linking your colon cancer to Agent Orange exposure can strengthen your case for compensation. 

As a Veteran who served during the specified period of the Vietnam War, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of Agent Orange exposure and to take appropriate precautions.  

If you are experiencing any symptoms or concerns related to colon cancer, do not hesitate to see your doctor for early detection and proper medical care.  

If you believe that your colon cancer is a result of Agent Orange exposure, it is important to seek compensation from the VA with the help of qualified experts like Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban, who can provide the necessary evidence to support your claim.