Agent Orange Effects on Veterans’ Families

Veterans’ disabilities can obviously have an impact on the whole family, and in some circumstances dependents of disabled veterans may receive benefits themselves. When it comes to Agent Orange, effects on the family can be more direct and damaging. If you were exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam or elsewhere during your military service, or if you are the child of a veteran exposed to Agent Orange, here’s what you need to know.

What is an Agent Orange Baby? 

The term “Agent Orange baby” typically refers to the biological child of a veteran who was exposed to Agent Orange when the child themself suffers Agent Orange effects. There is some evidence to suggest that the grandchildren of those veterans may also experience Agent Orange effects. 

How Does Agent Orange Affect Descendants of Veterans? 

Some of the medical conditions and birth defects that have been connected to having a biological parent who was exposed to Agent Orange include: 

• Spina bifida
• Achondroplasia
• Cleft lip and/or palate
• Congenital heart disease
• Club foot
• Esophageal and intestinal atresia
• Hallerman-Streiff syndrome
• Hip dysplasia
• Hirschprung’s disease
• Hydrocephalus due to aqueductal stenosis
• Hypospadias
• Imperforate anus
• Neural tube defects
• Poland syndrome
• Pyloric stenosis
• Fused digits
• Tracheoesophageal fistula
• Undescended testicle
• Willams syndrome

Each of the conditions may be presumed connected to the veteran’s exposure to Agent Orange, but only if certain other conditions are met. For example, only spina bifida has been connected to a biological father’s exposure. For all other conditions, the presumption only applies if the biological mother was exposed. In either case, the parent must have served in a listed time and place. And, the presumption won’t apply if there is another explanation for the condition, such as a family history or a birth injury.

Can an Agent Orange Baby Get VA Disability?

VA disability benefits are just for veterans, but a child whose medical condition has been connected to a parent’s exposure to Agent Orange may qualify for other benefits. These benefits may include monthly monetary benefits, healthcare, and vocational training. 

To learn more about whether you or your child may qualify for these benefits, consult an experienced veterans benefits advocate at Veterans Help Group. Just call 855-855-8992 or fill out our contact form to get started.

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