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Evidence checklist

Bronchial Asthma

DC 660238 CFR § 4.97Respiratory

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) with pre/post bronchodilator spirometryCritical

Spirometry documenting FEV-1, FVC, and FEV-1/FVC ratio before and after bronchodilator use. The VA rates asthma primarily on FEV-1 percent predicted, with additional consideration for the number of required treatments.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking asthma to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" (50%+ probability) that your asthma is connected to in-service exposures (burn pits, chemical agents, occupational irritants) or in-service onset.

Private provider · independent opinion
Pulmonologist or allergist diagnosis and evaluationCritical

Specialist evaluation confirming the asthma diagnosis, documenting frequency of attacks, severity classification (intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, severe persistent), and triggers.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (inhalers, systemic corticosteroids, emergency visits)Critical

Records documenting the medication regimen including short-acting bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and any systemic (oral or parenteral) corticosteroid use. Higher steroid requirements drive higher VA ratings.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Symptom log documenting attack frequency and severity

Personal diary tracking the frequency of asthma attacks, rescue inhaler use, nighttime awakenings, and any work or activity limitations. Frequency and severity are key rating drivers.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Respiratory ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing PFT results, treatment requirements, attack frequency, and functional limitations from asthma.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 2 collected
Documentation of in-service toxic or occupational exposure

Service records, deployment orders, or PACT Act toxic exposure registry enrollment documenting burn pit exposure, chemical agent contact, or other respiratory hazards.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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