Diabetes (Type 2) VA Rating Guide

Overview

A chronic metabolic disorder affecting blood sugar regulation, commonly linked to Agent Orange exposure, obesity from service-connected disabilities, or medication side effects. Type 2 diabetes is presumptive for certain Vietnam veterans exposed to herbicides.

• VA Disability Code: 7913
• ICD Code: E11.9
• Category: Endocrine

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Requiring more than one daily injection of insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities

Examples:

• Multiple daily insulin injections
• Severely restricted lifestyle

60% Rating

Criteria: Requiring insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities with episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions requiring at least three hospitalizations per year or weekly visits to a diabetic care provider, plus either progressive loss of weight and strength or complications that would be compensable if separately evaluated

Examples:

• Insulin dependent with frequent complications
• Multiple hospitalizations

40% Rating

Criteria: Requiring insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities

Examples:

• Daily insulin injection
• Diet restrictions
• Activity limitations

20% Rating

Criteria: Requiring insulin and restricted diet, or; oral hypoglycemic agent and restricted diet

Examples:

• Controlled with oral medication
• Diet restrictions required

10% Rating

Criteria: Manageable by restricted diet only

Examples:

• Diet-controlled diabetes
• No medication required

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Frequent infections
• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Increased hunger

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Blood glucose test results
• HbA1c test results
• Medical records of diabetes diagnosis
• Medication and insulin records
• Treatment records from endocrinologist

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Peripheral Neuropathy (Strong Connection)

High blood sugar damages nerves throughout the body

Erectile Dysfunction (Strong Connection)

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves controlling erections

Hypertension (Strong Connection)

Diabetes and high blood pressure often coexist

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Bring glucose monitoring logs
• Document all medications and insulin doses
• Note any hospitalizations for complications
• Explain dietary restrictions
• Describe activity limitations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is diabetes presumptive for Agent Orange exposure?

Yes. Type 2 diabetes is a presumptive condition for veterans with qualifying service in Vietnam or other specified locations.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Diabetes (Type 2):

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - Diabetes (Type 2) often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Peripheral Neuropathy VA Rating Guide
• Erectile Dysfunction VA Rating Guide
• Hypertension VA Rating Guide