Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body, but mostly the lungs.
Some people who suffer from sarcoidosis don’t have any symptoms and the condition improves over time without problems. Others may have serious symptoms, are unable to work, or need medication. In rare cases, some patients may need an organ transplant. If you’re a veteran or on active duty and suffering symptoms of sarcoidosis, you may be eligible for disability benefits from the VA.
Additionally you may qualify for a presumptive service connection. Many veterans of conflicts in the Middle East who were exposed to toxic smoke from burn pits have been diagnosed with certain cancers or other serious diseases. The 2022 PACT Act added 23 medical conditions, including sarcoidosis, to the VA’s presumptive list. Now, “covered veterans” who developed sarcoidosis at any point during or after military service can qualify for presumptive service connection.
It means the VA must assume that these veterans were exposed to toxic chemicals and no longer have to provide proof of an in-service event, injury, or illness that led to their disabilities. This removes some of the obstacles associated with filing a VA disability claim.
The list of covered veterans include:
Veterans of conflicts in the Middle East. Those covered by the PACT Act include veterans who, on or after August 2, 1990, performed active military, naval, or air service while assigned to these countries (including the airspace above them):
- Bahrain
- Iraq
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Somalia
- United Arab Emirates
A veteran who, on or after September 11, 2001, performed active military, naval, or air service while assigned to these countries (including the airspace above them):
- Afghanistan
- Djibouti
- Egypt
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Syria
If your sarcoidosis symptoms seriously impact your ability to perform your job or live a normal life, contact us at Cuddigan Law for a free evaluation of your situation. You can call us at 402-933-5405 or email us at [email protected].
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