Breathe easier: COPD awareness for Veterans - VA News

I hope this information helps those diagnosed with COPD who may be searching for causes beyond exposure to burn pits. There are also other various service-related exposures, such as asbestos, mustard gas, and Agent Orange, which could explain the diagnosis.

Exposure to toxins from burn pits during military service has been linked to COPD and other respiratory conditions. Because of this established connection, the VA recognizes COPD as a presumptive condition for veterans who have served in proximity to burn pits.
Veterans with presumptive conditions are not required to establish that their military service led to their COPD; they need to show that they fulfill the service criteria for this presumption.

Mustard gas and lewisite are known to cause severe health conditions, including respiratory issues like COPD. Due to this proven link, the VA considers COPD a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to mustard gas or lewisite.
 https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/mustardgas/

Agent Orange is also associated with numerous health conditions. However, COPD is not currently recognized as a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure. Veterans who believe their COPD was caused by Agent Orange exposure can still file a claim, but they must provide sufficient evidence to establish the connection on a case-by-case basis.

Asbestos exposure during military service can also lead to COPD. While the VA does not recognize COPD as a presumptive condition for asbestos exposure, veterans can still present evidence to show that asbestos caused their COPD. These cases are reviewed individually, and establishing a service connection requires supporting documentation.

To measure the impact of COPD on lung function, the VA conducts Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). These tests help determine the severity of the condition and support claims for VA benefits.
https://www.veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov/3,82447

God bless.