VA News Release

Airborne Hazards Open Burn Pit Registry
https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/#page/home

We would like you to know that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) started processing disability claims on August 2, 2021, for asthma, rhinitis and sinusitis on a presumptive basis based on particulate matter exposure during military service in Southwest Asia and certain other areas – if these conditions manifested within 10 years of a qualifying period of military service.

It is important to note that the presumption is based on particulate matter exposure which can be caused by a variety of sources to include sand or dust, exhaust from diesel fuel and other engines, air pollution, and burn pits. We encourage you, if you have symptoms suggestive of the 3 conditions such as a chronic cough or ongoing runny nose and sinus congestion, to get evaluated by a health care professional to make a diagnosis and to file a claim if your condition fits with the presumptive conditions.

You can file a claim by going to this website How To File A VA Disability Claim | Veterans Affairs In addition, you can visit VA.gov or call toll free at 800-827-1000 for more information. Also, VA is reaching out to impacted Veterans and survivors to inform them about their eligibility and providing information on how to apply for benefits.

We also encourage you to ask your battle buddies who have not joined the AHOBPR to consider joining by going to Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/#page/home

Please visit VA.gov or call toll free at 800-827-1000 for more information.