Military toxic exposure claims are gaining traction. Here's what it means for veterans seeking VA disability benefits

Recently, the VA made updates regarding specific locations relating to toxic exposures during military service. This is good news for veterans who engaged in toxic exposure risk activities (TERA) during their military service – it's becoming a bit easier to prove that you have a service-connected condition due to toxic exposure. So, some veterans may now be more likely to qualify for VA disability benefits.

What changes have been made, and how does that affect your VA disability claims process? Let's get into it.

But first: A quick review of toxic exposure risk activities

Toxic exposure risk activities (TERA) are military activities such as combat or training that have exposed veterans to toxic and harmful substances.

Here are a few common examples:

• Air pollutants

• Chemical exposures

• Radiation exposures

• Biological weapons

To learn more about TERA in-depth, read our blog here. Next, what the VA has updated:

The VA has updated specific locations for TERA exposures

According to the VA's M21-1, new locations of specific environmental hazards have been identified by the Department of Defense as areas that could be the cause of health risks to veterans. Here's what they've added:

• Mosul, Iraq

  • What happened? A large sulfur fire at Mishraq State Sulphur Mine occurred back on June 24th, 2003. The fire lasted for approximately 3 weeks, causing a release of around 42 million pounds of sulfur dioxide (SO2) per day along with hydrogen sulfide (H2S). 

• Basrah, Iraq

  • What happened? Hexavalent chromium exposure was discovered at the Qarmat Ali Water Treatment Plant while Army National Guard personnel were present between April and September 2003. This chemical was found on the ground and in the air, and is a known lung carcinogen that can cause immediate irritation. Research into these exposure effects are still ongoing.

• Atsugi, Japan

  • What happened? Pollutants from a waste incinerator near the Naval Air Facility (NAF) became environmental contaminants, exposing personnel onsite from 1985 to 2001. Chemicals identified included: chloroform, 1, 2-DCE, methylene chloride, TCE, chromium, dioxins and furans, and other particulate matter.

The VA confirms that these locations are associated with specific toxic exposures, but they're not limited to these locations by any means. Each veteran's case will be evaluated individually, considering circumstances and other medical records.

TERA exposures are not presumptives – here's the difference

It's important to note that TERA exposures are NOT presumptives – meaning, just because you were at a certain location doesn't mean you will automatically receive VA disability benefits. 

However, it's still good news – because as we said earlier, it's getting easier to prove service-connection for TERA-related conditions now that the VA is recognizing more locations for exposures.

Need help with medical documentation for your VA disability claim?

It's time to get the VA disability benefits you deserve. We can help boost your claim with expertly crafted Nexus Letters, DBQs, and other additional services to get you prepared.

Ready to begin? Sign up for a Medical Evidence Assessment first (every veteran with one), or view our other services here.

Filing a VA disability benefits claim doesn't have to be frustrating or confusing. We'll work together to get you exactly what you need to navigate the VA's system with ease.