Diabetes (Type 2)
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is rated under 38 CFR § 4.119, Diagnostic Code 7913. It is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure. Rating is based on how diabetes is managed and the severity of complications.
VA Rating Levels
Manageable by restricted diet only; no medication required. Minimal functional impact.
Requires insulin or an oral hypoglycemic agent AND a restricted diet.
Requires insulin and restricted diet AND one of: regulation of activities (meaning you must limit physical activity), frequent episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions, or progressive loss of weight/strength.
Requires insulin, restricted diet, AND regulation of activities with one complication: frequent hospitalizations for ketoacidosis/hypoglycemic reactions, or complications such as peripheral neuropathy.
Requires insulin, restricted diet, regulation of activities, plus at least one of: progressive impairment of kidney function, frequent severe hypoglycemia requiring third-party assistance, or significant cardiovascular complications.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Claim all diabetes complications separately — neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, erectile dysfunction each get their own ratings
- →Agent Orange presumptive covers many Vietnam-era and Thailand-based veterans
- →Hyperglycemia that is 'regulated' by diet alone = 10%; adding oral meds = 20% minimum
- →Document hospitalizations for hypoglycemic or ketoacidotic episodes
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR § 4.119, Diagnostic Code 7913