As a veteran, you may have faced various risks during your service that can lead to long-term health challenges. One such condition is Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), a group of disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of the lungs, which progressively makes breathing more difficult. Exposure to toxic substances like burn pits or asbestos during military service can increase the risk of developing ILD.
Understanding the VA disability benefits available for ILD and how the VA assigns disability ratings for lung scarring and breathing problems is essential for securing the financial support you deserve.
Your VA rating for Interstitial Lung Disease depends on pulmonary function test (PFT) results, such as Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO), as well as the severity of your symptoms, including whether or not you need oxygen therapy.
What is Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?
Interstitial lung disease refers to a group of more than 200 disorders that cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs. This scarring stiffens the lungs, making it harder for them to expand and transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Dry cough
- Chest discomfort
- Fatigue
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Clubbing of fingers and toes (widening)
- Crackling sounds in the lungs
For veterans, common triggers include environmental and occupational exposures during military service. These might involve inhaling asbestos fibers while working on ships, burn pit smoke in Iraq or Afghanistan, jet fuel vapors, or industrial dust in deployment zones.
The PACT Act has expanded presumptive service connections for interstitial lung disease related to burn pit exposure, making it easier for post-9/11 veterans to qualify without proving direct causation.
Interstitial Lung Disease and the PACT Act
The PACT Act (Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act) signed in 2022 is a landmark development for veterans seeking a VA disability rating for interstitial lung disease. The Act includes ILD among the more than 20 presumptive conditions tied to toxic exposures like burn pits, Agent Orange, and other chemicals.
Veterans who served in qualifying locations such as Iraq, Afghanistan, or the Gulf War after Aug. 2, 1990, can now benefit from presumptive service connection for ILD. This means the VA assumes that burn pit smoke or particulate matter contributed to the development of ILD, thus streamlining the claims process.
Since the passage of the PACT Act, the VA has processed over 2.1 million claims related to toxic exposures, including many for Interstitial Lung Disease.
“The PACT Act has significantly reduced the burden of proof for veterans seeking service connection for respiratory diseases like ILD, making it easier for them to access VA benefits,” says Dr. John Riley, a VA Disability Claims Consultant.
How the VA Rates Interstitial Lung Disease?
The VA disability rating for ILD is based on the General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (Diagnostic Codes 6825-6833), which evaluates pulmonary function using objective tests such as Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO). These tests measure how well the lungs function in terms of gas exchange and lung capacity, usually conducted post-bronchodilator (after inhaler use) to ensure accurate results.
VA Ratings for ILD range from 10% to 100% depending on the severity of lung impairment and test results.
General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (DC 6825–6833)
| VA Rating | Criteria Based on Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) or Other Findings |
|---|---|
| 10% | FVC of 75–80% predicted, or DLCO (SB) of 66–80% predicted (mild reduction in lung function) |
| 30% | FVC of 65–74% predicted, or DLCO (SB) of 56–65% predicted (moderate impairment) |
| 60% | FVC of 50–64% predicted, or DLCO (SB) of 40–55% predicted, or maximum exercise capacity of 15-20 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limit (significant difficulty during exertion) |
| 100% | FVC less than 50% predicted, or DLCO (SB) less than 40% predicted, or maximum exercise capacity less than 15 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limit, or cor pulmonale (right heart failure), pulmonary hypertension, or requires outpatient oxygen therapy (severe restriction, likely requiring oxygen therapy) |
For example, if your FVC is below 50% predicted, indicating your lungs hold less than half the air capacity of a healthy peer, you may qualify for a 100% VA rating.
“When it comes to ILD, the VA’s disability rating hinges on objective testing, particularly pulmonary function tests. A significant reduction in lung function as reflected in these tests will typically correspond with a higher VA disability rating,” explains Sarah Thompson, a former VA Claims Adjudicator and expert in respiratory disability claims.
Common Types of ILD Seen in Veterans
Certain forms of interstitial lung disease are more prevalent in veterans due to their military service. These variants are covered under the same VA rating criteria for ILD:
- Pulmonary Fibrosis (DCs 6825–6827): Scarring of lung tissue, commonly linked to burn pit exposure.
- Asbestosis (DC 6833): Fibrosis caused by asbestos exposure, common among Navy veterans.
- Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (DC 6831): An allergic reaction to inhaled dust or chemicals, including mold or jet fuels.
- Sarcoidosis (DC 6846): Granulomas form in lungs from immune overreaction, potentially triggered by deployment.
While these conditions all fall under the same VA rating formula, documenting in-service exposure can help bolster your claim.
“Each variant of interstitial lung disease has its own unique causes, but they all fall under the same rating criteria for ILD,” says Dr. Linda Porter, a pulmonologist specializing in veteran care. “Veterans often find that documenting their exposures, such as burn pits or asbestos, is crucial for getting the support they need.”
Proving Service Connection for ILD
To successfully establish a service connection for interstitial lung disease, you must prove the following three elements:
- A current diagnosis of ILD, typically confirmed through PFTs, CT scans, or a biopsy.
- In-service exposure to known risk factors such as asbestos, burn pits, or industrial chemicals.
- A nexus (link) between the exposure and your current condition, often provided in the form of a medical nexus letter from a doctor.
Under the PACT Act, veterans who served in the specified locations and timeframes no longer need to provide a nexus letter for ILD claims. The VA presumes the connection to service for veterans exposed to toxins during their service.
Can ILD Be Secondary to Other Service-Connected Conditions?
Yes, Interstitial Lung Disease can develop as a secondary condition to existing service-connected health issues. Common conditions that could contribute to ILD include:
- Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Radiation therapy for service-connected cancers
- Chronic respiratory conditions, like sleep apnea
In these cases, a strong nexus letter from a medical professional explaining how the primary condition aggravated ILD can help secure a secondary service connection.
100% VA Disability for Interstitial Lung Disease
A 100% VA rating for ILD is given when there is severe respiratory impairment. This includes conditions such as:
- FVC less than 50% predicted
- DLCO less than 40% predicted
- Need for outpatient oxygen therapy
Veterans with severe ILD may experience near-total respiratory failure and are often unable to perform basic tasks without assistance.
TDIU for Interstitial Lung Disease
If ILD symptoms prevent substantial gainful employment but do not meet the 100% schedular criteria, veterans may still be eligible for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
TDIU provides compensation at the 100% rate if the veteran has one condition rated at least 60% or two or more conditions totaling 70% with at least one condition rated 40%.
Final Thought
Interstitial lung disease can have a profound impact on a veteran’s life, causing significant difficulties with breathing, daily activities, and employment. The VA rating for ILD is based on pulmonary function tests and the severity of symptoms, such as the need for oxygen therapy.
Veterans exposed to toxic substances during service, including those affected by burn pits or asbestos, may qualify for service-connected VA benefits under the PACT Act. Understanding the VA rating system, gathering medical evidence, and securing a nexus letter will help ensure you receive the support you deserve.
FAQs
What is the VA rating for interstitial lung disease?
The VA assigns ratings of 10% to 100% based on pulmonary function and symptoms, with a 100% rating given to severe cases with oxygen dependence.
How can I prove my ILD is service-connected?
Veterans must provide a medical diagnosis, proof of in-service exposure, and a nexus letter linking the condition to their service.
Can I get TDIU with a 60% ILD rating?
Yes, a 60% ILD rating meets the threshold for TDIU if breathing limitations prevent substantial gainful employment.
Does the PACT Act cover asbestosis VA ratings?
No, the PACT Act does not include asbestosis as a presumptive condition. Veterans must prove direct exposure and service connection for asbestosis.
Is pulmonary fibrosis the same as ILD for VA disability?
Yes, pulmonary fibrosis is a form of ILD and falls under the same VA rating formula for ILD.
