Veterans Affairs (VA) is finally admitting an association between Parkinson’s disease and an exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. VA's final regulation recognizing this association took effect on October 30, 2010. Vietnam-era Veterans exposed to herbicides do not have to prove a connection between their Parkinson’s disease (and other diseases) and military service to be eligible to receive VA benefits.
In addition, under the new final rule dated January 25, 2011, the VA will presume herbicide exposure for any veteran who served between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 “in a unit determined by VA and the Defense to have operated in an area in or near the Korean DMZ in which herbicides were applied,” according to the statement.
For more information, visit:
Department of Veterans Affairs Website on Agent Orange and Parkinson’s Disease: http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange/conditions/parkinsonsdisease.asp
More Vets Approved for Agent Orange Claims http://www.medpagetoday.com/PublicHealthPolicy/MilitaryMedicine/24596
