EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Obesity (Secondary) VA Disability Rating
DC 7903 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.119 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.12
OVERVIEW
Obesity is not independently ratable but can be claimed as secondary to service-connected conditions (medications causing weight gain, mobility limitations preventing exercise). It can also serve as an aggravating factor for other conditions.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- Severe systemic involvement
Marked involvement of multiple body systems requiring intensive management.
60% -- Significant systemic involvement
Significant complications requiring multiple medications and activity restriction.
30% -- Moderate symptoms requiring continuous medication
Moderate symptoms controlled with continuous medication.
10% -- Mild symptoms or medication-controlled
Mild symptoms or condition controlled with medication alone.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026