Gynecological Cancer — VA Disability Rating (DC 7627)
Diagnostic Code 7627 · 38 CFR §4.116
What Is It?
DC 7627 covers malignant neoplasms (cancers) of the gynecological system, including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer. This is separate from breast cancer, which is rated under DC 7630. Veterans may develop gynecological cancers linked to environmental exposures during service (Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation, contaminated water), or as a result of conditions acquired during service. The VA automatically rates active gynecological cancer at 100 percent during treatment and for six months after treatment ends.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active gynecological cancer. This 100 percent rating continues throughout treatment and for six months after the last surgical, radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedure. After the six-month period, the VA conducts a mandatory reexamination and rates based on chronic residuals including scars, lymphedema, disfigurement, and other impairment of function under the appropriate diagnostic codes. |
Evidence Needed
Pathology reports confirming the cancer diagnosis are essential. Treatment records documenting all surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation provide the basis for the 100 percent rating. Records of ongoing monitoring and any evidence of recurrence keep the rating current. Post-treatment evaluations documenting residual effects support the permanent rating after the six-month period. Exposure documentation linking the cancer to service (deployment records, toxic exposure registries) establishes the service connection.
C&P Exam Tips
During active treatment, the focus is simply confirming the diagnosis and treatment status. After treatment, focus on describing every residual effect in detail: fatigue, neuropathy, cognitive changes from chemotherapy, surgical menopause symptoms, pain, digestive issues, bladder problems, scars, lymphedema, and any other lasting effects. Each residual symptom may be rated separately under the appropriate diagnostic code.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ as soon as possible after diagnosis to start the 100 percent rating promptly. Include pathology reports, treatment records, and exposure documentation. Register for the relevant toxic exposure registry if applicable (Agent Orange, burn pit, radiation). After treatment, file separate claims for each residual condition. Consider working with a veterans service organization experienced in environmental exposure claims.
Common Mistakes
Waiting too long to file after diagnosis, losing months of the 100 percent rating Not filing separate claims for every residual effect of treatment after the six-month period Failing to document toxic exposure that may have caused the cancer Not registering for applicable exposure registries (Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the 100 percent cancer rating last?
The 100 percent rating lasts throughout active treatment plus six months after your last treatment session. After that, the VA will schedule a reexamination. Even if the cancer is in remission, you keep the 100 percent rating until the VA completes that reexamination — they cannot reduce your rating without it.
Can gynecological cancer be presumptively connected to service?
Certain gynecological cancers are presumptively connected to specific exposures. The PACT Act expanded presumptive conditions for burn pit and toxic exposure. Agent Orange exposure has established presumptives for several cancers. Check the current list of presumptive conditions for your specific exposure, as this list is periodically updated.