Claiming Ulcerative Colitis Secondary to PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam)
How to file a VA disability claim for Ulcerative Colitis as a secondary condition to your service-connected PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam). This guide covers the medical nexus, evidence requirements, and how a secondary claim can increase your combined rating.
This is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent.
Medical Nexus: PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) → Ulcerative Colitis
NEXUS STRENGTH
moderate
COMMONLY GRANTED
Varies
CLAIM TYPE
Secondary
What is a Secondary VA Disability Claim?
A secondary condition is a disability that was caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. Under 38 CFR § 3.310, the VA will grant service connection for a secondary condition if you can show a medical relationship (nexus) between your already service-connected condition and the new condition.
In this case, you would claim that your service-connected PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) caused or worsened your Ulcerative Colitis.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) Leads to Ulcerative Colitis
Primary Condition: PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam)
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Ulcerative Colitis
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Ulcerative Colitisis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam). This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) rated as service-connected. If not, file for that first or file both claims simultaneously.
4. Personal Statement
A detailed statement (VA Form 21-4138) describing how your PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) symptoms led to or worsened your Ulcerative Colitis. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Ulcerative Colitis as a secondary condition will increase your combined VA disability rating using VA math. Here are 2026 monthly rates by rating:
30% Rating
$552.47
/month
50% Rating
$1,132.90
/month
70% Rating
$1,808.45
/month
Other Conditions Secondary to PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam)
File Your Ulcerative Colitis Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Ulcerative Colitis evidence, link it to your PFAS Exposure (Firefighting Foam) claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.