Americans are exposed to toxic chemicals at low levels for most of our lives. Research bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency set limits for what levels of toxic exposure are acceptable to the human body. However, some chemicals, like PFAS, are not fully understood by our governing bodies. Veterans in particular are still exposed to …
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VA Benefits for Exposure to Jet Fuel
Military service can have a lasting impact on a person’s health. In addition to the physical and psychological stresses of war, many veterans are exposed to toxic chemicals and other hazardous materials. One such exposure is jet fuel, a common fuel used in aircraft and other military vehicles. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has …

Applying for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Veterans face unique challenges transitioning to civilian life, especially those with service-related disabilities. The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program to assist veterans in overcoming employment barriers and achieving meaningful employment. This program provides vital support and services to disabled veterans. This article explores the intricacies of the …

Military Service-Related Cancers
For those who have served in the military, the risk of certain health conditions, including specific cancers, can be significantly higher. The increased risk is mainly due to exposure to various environmental hazards during service. Understanding these risks, knowing the symptoms, and being aware of available support options is crucial for all veterans. This article …

Ask An Expert: Preparing For Your C&P Exam
About Our Expert Jeffrey Garbelman is a licensed psychologist and co-operator of Watertown Psychological Assessment, LLC, which assists veterans in all matters of mental health and veteran benefits. As a former VA C&P Psychologist and consultant for the Milwaukee Regional Center, he has offered medical opinions on over 250 veteran mental health Disability Indemnity Compensation …

Liver Flukes: Everything You Need to Know About This Cancer-Causing Parasite
One may not typically associate parasitic worms with cancer, but the link between liver flukes and bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is becoming increasingly clear. Though rare, CCA is particularly concerning for military personnel and veterans who served in Southeast Asia, where liver fluke infection is a major risk factor for CCA. …

VA Benefits for Spouses, Dependents, and Survivors
Military families often bear the weight of sacrifices made by their loved ones who served in the United States Armed Forces. As the spouse, dependent, or survivor of a veteran, you have experienced firsthand the dedication, courage, and selflessness exhibited by your family member. Recognizing the immense contributions and sacrifices made by military families, the …

Decoding VA Disability Compensation Rates
Navigating the realm of Veterans Affairs compensation can feel like uncharted territory. An integral part of this journey involves understanding VA disability benefits, their corresponding disability compensation rates, and how they influence the financial well-being of those who’ve served our country. This blog post will examine how service-connected disabilities are evaluated and how the VA …

How Long Does a VA Disability Claim Take?
When filing a VA disability claim, one of the most common questions veterans have is: How long does a VA disability claim take? The journey of filing a VA disability claim can be complex and time-consuming, often leaving veterans eager to know the status of their claim. In this article, we will explore the average …

What Is the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA)?
The Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) is a significant reform implemented by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to streamline and improve the appeals process for veterans seeking benefits. The AMA introduced changes to the VA appeals process, offering veterans more options and control over their appeals. With three distinct review options, veterans now have the …