Diagnostic Code 7528 · 38 CFR §4.115b
DC 7528 covers malignant neoplasms (cancers) of the genitourinary system, including prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among male veterans and is presumptively connected to Agent Orange exposure. Bladder cancer is linked to burn pit exposure under the PACT Act. The VA rates active cancer at 100% during treatment with reevaluation after treatment ends.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Post-treatment with no active disease and no residual voiding dysfunction or renal impairment. |
| 10% | Post-treatment residuals — mild voiding dysfunction or other residuals rated under the appropriate code. |
| 30% | Post-treatment voiding dysfunction or renal dysfunction at the 30% level, OR significant scar/disfigurement. |
| 60% | Post-treatment residuals at the 60% level under renal dysfunction or voiding dysfunction criteria. |
| 100% | Active malignant neoplasm of the genitourinary system. The 100% rating continues for six months after the cessation of surgical, X-ray, antineoplastic chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedure. After that, the rating is determined by residuals. |
Pathology reports confirming the cancer diagnosis and staging are essential. Treatment records for surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy support the 100% rating. Post-treatment evaluations documenting residual effects determine the permanent rating. Exposure documentation (Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation) supports presumptive or direct service connection.
Yes. Prostate cancer is one of the presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and other tactical herbicides. If you served in Vietnam, Thailand (certain bases), or other qualifying locations during the qualifying period, the VA presumes your prostate cancer was caused by herbicide exposure. You do not need a separate nexus opinion.
The PACT Act expanded presumptive conditions for burn pit and toxic exposure veterans. Bladder cancer and several kidney cancers are included for qualifying veterans. Check the current PACT Act presumptive list for your specific exposure category, as the list continues to be updated.