★ Hematologic / Cancer
Leukemia VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.117, Diagnostic Code 7703
Overview
Several types of leukemia (AML, CML, hairy cell, B-cell) are presumptive under Agent Orange.
Ionizing radiation exposure (atomic veterans, certain occupational exposures) supports presumptive service connection.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Presumptive: Agent Orange and ionizing radiation veterans.
- Direct: documented carcinogen exposure or in-service onset.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.117, Diagnostic Code 7703
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active disease; or during a treatment phase requiring chemotherapy, radiotherapy, antibiotic, transfusion, or other therapy. |
| Variable | Six months after the last treatment phase: rated on residuals (anemia, infections, neuropathy, etc.). |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Bone marrow biopsy.
- Treatment records.
- Exposure documentation (Vietnam/Korean DMZ/Thailand or radiation).
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Leukemia:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Leukemia claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.