Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

DC 7527Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7527

Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder. The VA rates BPH based on the predominant urinary dysfunction — voiding dysfunction, urinary frequency, or obstructed voiding — whichever produces the highest rating.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7527

Rating range

0% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7527. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your BPH causes urinary frequency with a daytime voiding interval less than 1 hour, or you wake up to void 5 or more times per night.

What the VA looks for

Daytime voiding interval less than 1 hour
Awakening to void 5 or more times per night
Severe impact on sleep and employment
Possible use of catheter or other device
Urodynamic testing results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a voiding diary that documents how often you urinate during the day and how many times you wake up at night — the rating is directly based on these numbers.
⚠Not knowing that BPH can be rated under voiding dysfunction, urinary frequency, or obstructed voiding — whichever gives the highest rating should be used.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or sleep disturbance caused by frequent nighttime urination.
⚠Not connecting prostate conditions to Agent Orange or herbicide exposure if you served in qualifying locations.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Male Reproductive Organ Conditions
DBQ Kidney Conditions (Nephrology)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7527

Rating range

0% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your BPH causes urinary frequency with a daytime voiding interval less than 1 hour, or you wake up to void 5 or more times per night.

What the VA looks for

Daytime voiding interval less than 1 hour
Awakening to void 5 or more times per night
Severe impact on sleep and employment
Possible use of catheter or other device
Urodynamic testing results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a voiding diary that documents how often you urinate during the day and how many times you wake up at night — the rating is directly based on these numbers.

⚠Not knowing that BPH can be rated under voiding dysfunction, urinary frequency, or obstructed voiding — whichever gives the highest rating should be used.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or sleep disturbance caused by frequent nighttime urination.

⚠Not connecting prostate conditions to Agent Orange or herbicide exposure if you served in qualifying locations.