Toxic Exposure & Presumptive Conditions
Depleted Uranium (DU) Exposure — VA Claims
Depleted uranium was used in armor and munitions. Veterans wounded by DU fragments, or who worked on or around struck vehicles, may have internal exposure that VA monitors and evaluates.
Who's covered
VA recognizes exposure for service in these locations and time periods:
Depleted Uranium (DU) Exposure
from August 2, 1990Depleted uranium used in armor-piercing munitions and tank/vehicle armor during 1990-91 Gulf War, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. VA operates the MEDU Surveillance Center at the Baltimore VA. Claims case-by-case.
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What you need to file
- DD-214 — Service period
- Personnel records / incident reports — Documents DU exposure event
- DU urine bioassay / MEDU evaluation — VA Baltimore MEDU Surveillance Center
- Medical evidence of nexus — VA decides case-by-case
How to file
File a disability claim for your diagnosed condition and note the exposure. The usual path: lock your date with an Intent to File, get a current diagnosis, gather your service records, and prepare for your C&P exam. If service connection isn't obvious, a nexus letter can help.
Legal authority & sources
VA recognition; no presumptive statute
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Common questions
What conditions are presumptive for Depleted Uranium?
VA evaluates Depleted Uranium claims based on documented exposure and a current diagnosis.
Who qualifies for Depleted Uranium benefits?
You generally need qualifying service in a recognized location and time period (listed above), a current diagnosis, and a discharge that isn't dishonorable.
How do I file an exposure claim?
File a disability claim listing your condition and exposure. Start with an Intent to File to lock your effective date, get a current diagnosis, and bring your service records. The VA Ready app and guides walk you through each step.
Presumptive conditions, eligible locations, and dates are summarized from VA.gov and the cited authorities and can change. Always confirm current eligibility at VA.gov or with a VA-accredited representative. VA Ready is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and this page is not legal or medical advice.