VA Disability Rating for Malignant Respiratory Neoplasms (DC 6819)
Diagnostic Code 6819 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
This diagnostic code covers malignant (cancerous) tumors anywhere in the respiratory system, including lung cancer, tracheal cancer, bronchial cancer, and pleural mesothelioma. The VA assigns an automatic 100 percent rating for active cancer or during treatment. Veterans are at increased risk for respiratory cancers from asbestos exposure (especially Navy veterans), Agent Orange, burn pit smoke, radiation exposure, and industrial chemicals encountered during service. The PACT Act has expanded presumptive conditions for toxic-exposed veterans.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active malignancy or during any treatment for the cancer. A mandatory VA exam occurs six months after treatment stops to determine the ongoing rating. |
| 60% | Post-treatment residuals with significant respiratory impairment based on PFT results showing FEV-1 of 40 to 55 percent, or other qualifying criteria. |
| 30% | Post-treatment residuals with moderate respiratory impairment. |
| 10% | Post-treatment residuals with mild respiratory impairment. |
| 0% | Cancer in full remission with no residual respiratory impairment. |
Evidence Needed
- Pathology report confirming the malignant diagnosis
- Oncology treatment records — surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy
- Service records documenting toxic exposure — asbestos, Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation
- Deployment records to areas with known environmental hazards
- Post-treatment PFT results for residual rating evaluation
- PACT Act toxic exposure documentation if applicable
C&P Exam Tips
- During active treatment, the 100 percent rating is automatic — focus on establishing service connection
- Keep all pathology and treatment records organized
- Document your military exposure history in detail — asbestos in ships, burn pits, Agent Orange areas, radiation
- After treatment, get PFT results for the residual rating evaluation
- Report all residual symptoms from both the cancer and its treatment
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with pathology reports, treatment records, and toxic exposure documentation. PACT Act claims may provide presumptive service connection for eligible veterans.
Common Mistakes
Not filing during active treatment File immediately upon diagnosis. You will receive 100 percent from the claim date during active cancer or treatment. Not documenting toxic exposure Service connection for respiratory cancer often depends on proving toxic exposure. Gather asbestos records, deployment history, and buddy statements. Not claiming treatment side effects Chemotherapy and radiation cause separate conditions that can be rated individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lung cancer automatically 100 percent?
Yes, during active disease or treatment. After treatment ends, the VA evaluates residual impairment at a mandatory six-month follow-up exam.
Does the PACT Act cover lung cancer?
The PACT Act expanded coverage for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. Many respiratory cancers are now presumptive conditions for eligible veterans.
What if my cancer comes back?
If the cancer recurs, you return to the 100 percent rating during active disease and treatment.