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Coronary Artery Disease and Obesity in Veterans Disability

coronary artery disease agent orange

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a prevalent health concern, especially among veterans. There is often a relationship between Coronary Artery Disease and Obesity in Veterans Disability, particularly in how weight gain serves as an intermediate step. Complexities of CAD, its diagnosis, and the role of obesity in contributing to this condition is a crucial topic to discuss.

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Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease, also known as arteriosclerotic heart disease, is characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries around the heart due to the accumulation of plaque and fatty deposits. Veterans can be rated for CAD if diagnosed during active duty or if it is deemed secondary to other medical conditions.

Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease

To establish a service connection for coronary artery disease, it’s crucial to consider various risk factors. These include modifiable factors like smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, stress, and physical inactivity. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, family history, and gender.

Secondary Basis for CAD in Veterans

Veterans often seek disability benefits for coronary artery disease on a secondary basis, linking it to other service connected conditions such as hypertension, sleep apnea, and mental health issues like PTSD and depression. Notably, obesity is often identified as an intermediate step in this relationship.

Obesity as an Intermediate Step

Obesity is a well-documented risk factor for coronary artery disease, and its role as an intermediate step in the development of this condition can be significant. Factors contributing to weight gain in veterans may include a sedentary lifestyle, mental health conditions leading to compensatory eating habits, or service-connected disabilities limiting physical activity.

Medical Opinion Letters and Establishing Service Connection

To substantiate a claim for VA disability benefits related to coronary artery disease and obesity, medical opinion letters may play a crucial role. While these letters are never required, they can at times prove helpful. They can be obtained for little to no cost from a veterans treating provider or from an expert company like Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting. These letters must clearly state that the weight gain or obesity is a direct result of or aggravated by the service-connected condition. The language used should emphasize that the condition would not have occurred but for the weight gain caused by the service-connected disability.

Literature Supporting the Connection

Several articles contribute valuable insights into the relationship between weight gain and chronic diseases, serving as essential references for medical opinion letters. Examples include “Lack of exercise is a major cause of chronic diseases” and “Reducing calorie intake may not help you lose body weight.” Veterans can use these articles to support their claims and encourage their healthcare providers to include relevant information in medical opinion letters.

Rating System for CAD

Understanding the rating system for coronary artery disease is vital for veterans seeking disability benefits. The Metabolic Equivalents (METs) system assesses the functional capacity of individuals based on their workload. Ratings range from 10% to 100%, considering factors such as dyspnea, angina, fatigue, and congestive heart failure. Veterans should be aware of these ratings to better understand how their condition may be evaluated by the VA.

Conclusion

Coronary Artery Disease and obesity in the context of VA disability claims require careful consideration of various factors. Veterans should work closely with their healthcare providers to establish a clear link between service-connected conditions, weight gain, and the development of CAD. By utilizing relevant literature and medical opinion letters, veterans may strengthen the support for their claims and at times improve their chances of obtaining the disability benefits they deserve. Understanding the nuances of the rating system with the assistance of an accredited legal professional like a veterans service officer, accredited claims agent or attorney can further empower veterans to navigate the complexities of the VA disability process successfully.

Also read: Pseudofolliculitis Barbae and Veterans Disability

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

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Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

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LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Julie Pereira

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings.  This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
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Jennifer Januta

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Leah - Meet the Team

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.