VA benefits that aren’t related to exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune won’t affect your award from a lawsuit. Over time, basal cell carcinoma can grow wide and deep. F. , March 2013 VA Treatment Note (diagnosing left forearm basal cell carcinoma); June 2012 VA Treatment Note (diagnosing basal cell carcinoma on the head). Most skin cancer forms in the epidermis. e. Metastasis is rare, but local growth can be highly destructive. Interstitial lung disease (ILD). Of 6,385,378 users of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) care in fiscal year (FY) 2019, 0. And there is certainly the potential for risk in the military, especially in certain types of terrain and situations. The two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Typically, it disturbs the production of your white blood cells, causing abnormal, insufficient, or excessive cells that then have a negative effect on your organs and immune system. Non-small-cell carcinoma--inoperable, unresectable, recurrent, or metastatic disease to or beyond the hilar nodes. (866) 476-4558 or complete the form below to. ) AHRQ Publication No. If you require systemic chemotherapy, X-ray therapy beyond the skin, or surgery more extensive than a local incision, you can qualify for a 100 percent VA disability rating. Basal cell carcinoma is defined as skin cancer that begins in the basal cells, which are responsible for producing new skin cells as old cells die off. BCC mostly arises on sun-damaged skin and rarely develops on the mucous membranes or palms and soles. 401-331-6300. Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung. Most cancers are rated at 100% temporarily. R. CCK successfully argued that Board erred in denial of squamous cell carcinoma due to herbicide exposure in relying on inadequate examination. In a nutshell, the VA’s disability rating criteria for scars is based on multiple factors: Pain. 900(c) (2012). For Reservists, Skin conditions must have occurred in or resulted from an injury in the Line of Duty to qualify. F. Therefore, your VA disability rating for cancer in remission will start at 100%. Squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea. Learn how to file a claim for service connection for basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer, and what VA ratings are based on the diagnosis, treatment, and nexus of the veteran's condition. Trained women representatives can also help you with issues. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer in humans. 159(c) (2014) to assist the Veteran. Adenocarcinoma of the trachea. Adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung. the VA gives veterans a 100 percent disability rating after diagnosis and while receiving care. Keep reading to find out if you may be eligible. 2008;159(1):137–144. Introduction and background. S. Ultraviolet sun damage is clearly linked to these tumors, so prevention really is THE most important thing. What Is The VA Disability Rating For Cancer? If your disability claim proves that your cancer was caused by your time in the military, you’re generally rated at the highest possible level (100). Local aggressive course. Treatments for this type of cancer generally include removal of the cancer by surgery, freezing, or use of creams. Individual Unemployability Rating Calculator; 2023 VA Disability Back Pay Calculator;. This basal cell carcinoma could be mistaken for an area of dry, irritated skin. Certain rare, aggressive forms can be fatal if not treated promptly. In a recent study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange were tested for increased risk of non-melanotic skin cancer (NMSC). Despite the low mortality caused by this cancer, once it spreads, it has dim prognosis. Sometimes, the lump bleeds or develops a crust. There are two main categories of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. 1 – 4 Clinical features sometimes allow for the distinction between these subtypes, but do not always permit clear delineation. An Australian group of almost 300 people who had a history of skin cancer were given 2. Gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), dyspepsia, and abdominal pain syndrome. S. It’s a highly curable cancer with both surgical and nonsurgical therapies, especially if treated early. Usually, a small, shiny bump appears on the skin and enlarges slowly. VA automatically presumes that certain disabilities were caused by military service. On the chest and back basal cell carcinoma is usually a flat and scaly patch of skin that can be either flesh colored or brown. 2 - 4 Worldwide incidence. S. Fax. Here’s the brutal truth about VA disability claims: According to our data, 8/10 (80%) of veterans reading this message right now are underrated by the VA… This means you do NOT currently have the VA disability rating and compensation YOU deserve, and you could be missing out on thousands of dollars of tax-free compensation. The PACT Act will bring these changes: Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras. The team at Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick has helped many veterans win the benefits they deserve and may be able to help you do the same! If you need assistance with your appeal for Raynaud’s Disease, contact our office today for a free case evaluation. This cancer is caused by a mutation to the genetic material in basal cells, which are found at the bottom of our outermost layer of skin. It also may appear as a firm red lump. No evidence of recurrence of basal cell carcinoma was noted. Call CCK today at 800-544-9144 to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. If the doctor thinks that a suspicious area might be skin cancer, the area (or part of it) will be removed and sent to a lab to be looked at under a microscope. A small pink growth with a slightly raised, rolled edge and a crusted indentation in the center that may develop tiny surface blood vessels over time. If a. BCCs usually appear on the face, neck, back or shoulders. Last Updated on October 31, 2023. Sometimes called Mohs. e. C. Medical EvidenceNodular basal cell carcinoma is the most common subtype and presents as a pink, pearly papule with overlying telangiectasias and rolled borders. Veterans who develop small cell carcinoma as a result of military service may qualify for VA disability benefits. 73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months; or requiring regular routine dialysis; or eligible kidney transplant recipient. 1304. There was a slightly higher proportion of SCC in those >65 years of age than BCC. If you’ve been diagnosed with a small or early. 2 The age-adjusted. AL Amyloidosis. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. The diagnosis was superficial basal cell carcinoma. Entitlement to an increased initial disability rating for dysphagia, currently rated 30 percent disabling. If you are a veteran with disfiguring or painful skin conditions and scars, the VA may owe you disability compensation. Call now 800-544-9144. C. If you are still not sure if you qualify for VA compensation benefits, call our VA specialists at. Chronic B-Cell Leukemias: 2003: Chloracne: 1991: Diabetes Mellitus Type 2: 2001: Hodgkin’s Disease: 1994:. , it is on the ear or a hair-bearing lip, or it has grown into the small nerves in the skin). This type of cancer makes up 90% of all skin cancer in the United States. A § 5103A (West 2014) and 38 C. Disability payment amounts depend on your marital status as well as how many dependents you are caring for. Posted on March 4, 2020 in Skin Cancer Risks & Prevention. A Canadian study found the lifetime incidence in the Caucasian population to be between 15%–28% in women and 17%–39% in men [ 3 ]. Find out the steps to prepare for a Compensation and Pension exam and the types of evidence to submit. Basal cells are found at the bottom of the epidermis — the outermost layer of skin. The conditions included are based on. Sarcoidosis. 1% of patient deaths from cancer. Here’s the brutal truth about VA disability claims: According to our data, 8/10 (80%) of veterans reading this message right now are underrated by the VA… This means you do NOT currently have the VA disability rating and compensation YOU deserve, and you could be missing out on thousands of dollars of tax-free compensation. There are 3 main types of cells in this layer: Squamous cells: These are flat cells in the upper (outer) part of the epidermis, which are constantly shed as new ones form. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It is locally aggressive, may invade the skin and adjacent structures, including the muscles and bones, and has a low metastatic potential [ 1 ]. location on the lip or ear. The prognosis for patients with BCC is excellent, but if the disease is allowed to progress, it can cause significant morbidity. NBCCS is a hereditary condition characterized by multiple basal cell skin cancers. You may also receive an impairment of function disability. Basal cell carcinoma starts in the lower area of. With a 0 percent VA disability rating, you’ll also have the right to apply for life insurance through the VA with the Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI) program. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a nonmelanocytic skin cancer (ie, an epithelial tumor) that arises from basal cells (ie, small, round cells found in the lower layer of the epidermis). 91 - other international versions of ICD-10 C44. The lump may appear shinier than the skin around it with tiny visible blood vessels. Compensation provides tax-free monthly payments. ItThese cancers begin in different layers of the skin. § 4. With early diagnosis and treatment, most skin cancer is curable, but this disease can cause pain, nausea, and fatigue. Understanding what causes BCC and the factors that increase your risk of getting it can help you. Basal cell carcinoma is a superficial, slowly growing papule or nodule that derives from certain epidermal cells. Fatigue; Swelling;The decision further assigned a 100 percent rating from June 3, 2004 to December 31, 2004, and a 30 percent rating thereafter for renal cell carcinoma, status post left nephrectomy and partial right nephrectomy. When these cells grow out of control, they can develop into squamous cell skin cancer (also called squamous cell carcinoma ). Basal cell carcinoma is the commonest malignancy in Caucasians with incidence rates of 300 per 100,000 reported in the USA. Fax. Call the C-123 hotline at ( ), Email the St. This type of cancer makes up 90% of all skin cancer in the United States. 02-15 247A ) DATE ) ) On appeal from the Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office in WilmingtoCancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States. OR . If you have been diagnosed with basal or squamous cell skin cancer or are worried about it, you likely have a lot of questions. VA is free to dismember a claim and adjudicate it in separate pieces. A hypertension VA rating uses the two numbers of. UV radiation exposure, childhood. If you have a health condition caused by exposure to the herbicide Agent Orange during your service, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. R. There were 66 basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and 34 squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) in patients exposed to Agent Orange. 00 = his $200,000. The VA will generally keep your 100% VA rating in place as long as your cancer is active. The VA rates skin cancer under three different codes: Benign Tumors. Project Period: July 2021 - September 2027. 6. Squamous cell carcinoma in situ is also called Bowen’s disease. BCC is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer worldwide. S. By no means is this program meant to produce an exact amount of your VA disability benefits or your exact VA disability rating. In this form of cancer,. Weinstock. , co-pays, deductibles) of patients through nearly 60 disease-specific programs designed to help patients being treated for certain chronic illnesses, rare diseases and cancers including advanced basal cell carcinoma and metastatic melanoma. The following list of rare respiratory cancers will be added to VA’s regulations through an Interim Final Rule published in the Federal Register on April 26, 2022: Squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. As a result, the disability adjusted life years and healthcare costs of BCCs have risen significantly in recent decades (Verkouteren 2017). VA continues update to rating schedule with latest revision on skin conditions - VA News. The rating is a VA decision regarding how much your illness or injury affects your ability to carry out daily tasks and your overall health. Of those three types, melanoma and basal cell carcinoma can result from exposure to ionizing radiation; squamous cell carcinoma has not been found to be radiogenic. F. 473 (2006). The DoD will also rate service-connected Skin conditions as long as they also make the service member Unfit for Duty. Request an Appointment. Short description: Basal cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder The 2024 edition of ICD-10-CM C44. What are “Presumptive Conditions”? Skin disorders (melanoma, basal cell, and squamous cell) Spontaneous abortion in female Vietnam veterans. Skin cancer can be grouped into two types: non-melanoma (also called keratinocyte carcinomas) and melanoma. How To File A Disability Claim For Agent Orange Exposure. Remember, the above list is not exhaustive, and the conditions are not guaranteed to be added to the VA’s Agent Orange presumptive list. The disorder involves the skin, nervous system, eyes, endocrine glands, urinary and reproductive systems, and bones. R. The first noticeable symptom is usually a painless lump or swelling. Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light causes changes that increase your risk of developing skin cancer. S. Freezing or light therapy: While surgical removal (described above) is often the preferred way to treat basal cell carcinoma, one of these following procedures may be recommended for some patients. 38 U. Some genodermatosis can predispose to formation of basal cell carcinomas at an earlier age. Other common signs include jaw cysts, pits on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, calcium deposits in the brain, developmental disability, and skeletal (bone) changes. This type of skin cancer is most common in people over age 50. Basal cell carcinoma occurs when one of the skin's basal cells develops a mutation in its DNA. There are 10 primary categories that. opacities, scar formation, or the following cancers: Nasopharyngeal; laryngeal; lung (except mesothelioma); or squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. and accounts for 90 percent of skin cancer diagnoses. Those who got the carotenoids had an almost 50% reduced risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the subsequent 8-year follow-up. When these cells become cancerous, they usually turn into small skin tumors that can destroy skin and nearby tissues. Disability Ratings. by LaTina Emerson | Jun 12, 2022. VA Disability Ratings for Head and Neck Cancers. Hugh Jackman knows a lot about skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for about 80% of all non-melanoma skin cancer cases. Adenocarcinoma of the trachea. As the. Examples of other presumptive conditions include veteran exposure to Agent Orange or burn pit exposure and respiratory cancers (added in April 2022 to the updated gulf war presumptive list ). develop basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or both each year, but only about 2,000 cases are fatal. As the. 9 mg of lutein and zeaxanthin daily for six months. Basal cells: These cells are in the lower part. Citation Nr: 0702606 Decision Date: 01/29/07 Archive Date: 02/06/07 DOCKET NO. Squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea. Among men 50–64 years old, the group that includes most Vietnam veterans (see Table 6-1), however, the risk of dying from cancer exceeds the risk of dying from heart disease, the main cause of death in the United States, and does not fall to second place until after the age of 75 years (Heron. Freezing or light therapy: While surgical removal (described above) is often the preferred way to treat basal cell carcinoma, one of these following procedures may be recommended for some patients. squamous cell carcinoma at the site of a cold injury scar or peripheral neuropathy, under other diagnostic codes. The average compensation for Agent Orange is a 100 percent service connected VA disability rating, which is worth a minimum of $3,332. By clicking the button below, you acknowledge that this calculator is meant to be an estimation of your possible retro benefits. 38 U. S. A differential regression rate was present with 30. Non-small-cell carcinoma--inoperable, unresectable, recurrent, or metastatic disease to or beyond the hilar nodes. For us to consider your claim fully developed, you’ll need to: Submit your completed Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ), and Submit all the evidence (supporting documents) you have—or can easily get—along with your claim, and Certify that there’s no more evidence we might. We use your disability. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. In rarer instances, AKs may also turn into basal cell carcinomas, the most common form of skin cancers. Basal cell carcinoma is a superficial, slowly growing papule or nodule that derives from certain epidermal cells. When left untreated, especially if the carcinoma is morpheaform, it can destroy muscles, nerves. VA automatically presumes that certain disabilities were caused by military service. This result was not seen with basal cell cancer. Urinary bladder cancer. are expected to be diagnosed with some type of the disease. The examiner made the following diagnoses: (1) basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in above described areas of head, chest and back, related to sun exposure; (2) actinic keratosis -this is a an indolent potential precursor to squamous cell carcinoma, as per literature review, the risk of malignant transformation of the average. Although rarely fatal, BCC can be. Histologically the tumor has an appearance similar to the normal epithelial basal cell layer (Figure 1). We assign you a disability rating based on the severity of your service-connected condition. Skin cancer can vary greatly in terms of severity, and is generally divided into three main types: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and the most common form, Melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as: A pearly or waxy bump; A flat, flesh colored or brown scar-like lesion; A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns; Squamous Cell Carcinoma Signs and Symptoms . In an event comoderated by Michael K. 3. 307(a)(6). 2. You must provide your name, e-mail address, telephone and/or fax number, and VA file. The Veteran has currently diagnosed squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. Veterans living with kidney cancer or renal dysfunction, who may have been exposed dangerous chemicals during military service, may be eligible for VA disability compensation. Freezing: The procedure is called cryosurgery (cry-oh-sur-jer-ee), and it can be performed during an office visit. It might need to be repeated to help make sure all of the cancer has been removed. There are often no symptoms in early stages. These conditions may be treated with. McDonough said Thursday. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) falls under the nonmelanoma category, along with squamous cell carcinoma, which is the second most common form of skin cancer after BCC. Under. The prevalence of. Basal cell carcinoma occurs when one of the skin's basal cells develops a mutation in its DNA. Basal cell carcinomas can occur anywhere on the body; they may appear to sit on top of the skin, or burrow into it. Entitlement to a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities (TDIU). To start the process, a person must file a claim for disability compensation with the local VARO. Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Korean demilitarized zone or another area where Agent Orange was sprayed may be eligible for. Basal cell carcinoma is usually a slow-growing tumor for which metastases are rare. Cases of "aggressive and diffuse" non-melanoma skin cancers in TCDD-exposed veterans were first reported in plastic surgery journals in the mid-1980s. Stability. The percent you are given, from 0% to 100% is based on your current “disabled” status from that cancer. 5001 Bones and Joints, tuberculosis, active or inactive. See full list on vaclaimsinsider. It can spread deeply into the skin, wrap around nerves and blood vessels, and invade muscles. For example, the female sexual arousal disorder VA rating is 0% unless there is damage to the genitals. The cellular morphology shows areas of large, pale squamoid cells, but lack keratinisation. 104, (VA Diagnostic Code 7122. Treatments for this type of cancer generally include removal of the cancer by surgery, freezing, or use of creams. This can be an important safety net for your family in the event of your death. Learn more about basal cell cancer signs & symptoms, and how MSK experts can help. F. Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and. Basal cell carcinomas arise from keratinocytes near the basal layer, which are sometimes called basaloid keratinocytes. S. These types of cancers are considered presumptive by the VA (note that the list is incomplete): Brain and brain stem cancers: Diffuse astrocytoma. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignant tumor in light-skinned people and amounts to about 75 % of all cases of skin cancer. See, e. It develops in the basal cells, which originate in the lowest level of the epidermis. Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. In a study of 39 patients older than 80 years observed for 16 months with clinically diagnosed basal cell carcinomas in Greece, approximately half of the lesions grew, while the rest remained unchanged or regressed. § 3. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) arises from the interfollicular or follicular epithelium. App. There are two main types: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The PACT Act will bring these changes: Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras. Abstract. The Blood. . The appearance of a person with NBCCS may include a larger head size, a prominent. com. Entitlement to a compensable disability rating for actinic keratosis, multiple, with basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma excisions, claimed as a skin condition, prior to April 7, 2017, and in excess of 10 percent, thereafter. The disorder involves the skin, nervous system, eyes, endocrine glands, urinary and reproductive systems, and bones. At the Veteran's October 2013 VA examination, the examiner noted the two excisions for basal cell carcinoma in 2004 and 2005. Their incidence is increasing throughout the world. 115a states that when the VASRD refers a decision maker to these areas of dysfunction, only the predominant area of disability will be considered for rating purposes. Most people who are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma have fair skin and have often noticed signs of sun damage to their skin. If you break it down by rank, officers, especially older officers, tend. This includes service in Iraq, Afghanistan, and certain other areas. 311 or. 08-02 015 ) DATE ) ) On appeal from the Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Waco, Texas THE ISSUE Entitlement to an initial compensable disability rating for residuals of skin cancer, to include scars as a result of excisions of basal cell carcinoma of the chest and left lower eyelid, and scars as a result of excisions of squamous. This is the currently assigned disability rating. C. The incidence of basal cell carcinoma shows marked geographical variation. Check VA's Guide to Agent Orange Claims to learn more about how to establish eligibility to disability compensation and how much VA pays. This type affects the cells that form the foundation of your outer-most layer of skin. Stomach cancer. Entitlement to restoration of a 100 percent disability rating for squamous cell carcinoma, from May 1, 2008 to October 20. VA Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation Page 1 of 8. F. Anaplastic astrocytoma. § 4. BCC is a non-melanoma skin cancer, and is the most common type (greater than 80%) of all skin cancer in the UK. General Rating Formula For The Skin. This evidence is new because it was not previously before VA decisionmakers at the time of the July 2005 rating decision. va. VA Ratings for Agent Orange range from 10% to 100% depending on the disability and the Frequency, Severity, and Duration of symptoms (i. 3 million people in the U. Resolving reasonable doubt in the Veteran's favor, his skin disability, to include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis, is related to active service. S. 6. Basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma should be primarily treated with surgical excision. These masses exhibit a peripheral cell layer demonstrating a palisading pattern of nuclei. The topical therapy drug used for BCC is imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara). Prognosis depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis, and small cell carcinoma also has a tendency to return at some point after it’s been successfully treated. However, despite the progress in the field, BCC biology and mechanisms of resistance against systemic treatments have been. Typical Basal cell carcinoma symptoms are: ( 2) ( 3) New skin lesion. Skin cancer symptoms include: A new mole. The appearance of this skin cancer can vary. A basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer. Skin cancers – Extended exposure to Agent Orange may increase the risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. That means using sunscreen regularly, wearing protective. Etiology. Marcet, MD FACS. It usually develops on parts. Phone. If you have an illness or other health condition that’s connected to your service as a Gulf War Veteran from 1990 to now, you may be eligible. Basal cell carcinomas are the most common type of skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. VA Disability Ratings for Cancer and Residual Effects If you are service connected for an active cancer, VA should automatically assign a 100 percent disability rating . Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are skin cancers, but carcinoma can also affect the breasts, liver, lungs, neck and other parts. Most skin conditions—except for scars—are evaluated with the General Rating Formula. Available Monday through Friday, 8 a. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. Contact our office today for a free consultation at 800-544-9144. (ii) The term radiation-risk activity means:Citation Nr: 0719905 Decision Date: 07/02/07 Archive Date: 07/13/07 DOCKET NO. 7% for patients with SCC. About 80% of non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma. The VA disability rating for skin cancer is divided into two categories: non-lethal basal and squamous cell carcinomas (7818) and potentially lethal malignant melanoma. This is the most common type of skin cancer. Nonetheless, skin malignancies such as malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma are not among the disorders listed at 38 C. Skin biopsy. (A few very severe skin conditions, such as erythroderma, can get. com. Reportable Cancers and Tumors. 800-827-1000. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), previously known as basal cell epithelioma, is the most common cancer in Humans. These payment amounts are set out in the Veterans Disability Compensation Rates chart on the VAs website. 38 C. Skin Conditions Overview. firm, flesh-coloured or slightly reddish bump, often with a pearly border; may have small surface blood vessels giving it a red colourOne study 21 that was included in our review analyzed 216 patients with CSCC and basal cell carcinoma and CPNI and IPNI. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the commonest cancer affecting white‐skinned individuals, and worldwide incidence is increasing. There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. My job was outside for majority of my career. 2 per 100 000 population in 1998. This is because of the unique circumstances of a specific Veteran’s military service. Objective: To conduct an extensive review of skin cancer risks for US military. This rating continues for as long as the cancer is active, and then for another six months following the successful completion of a treatment program, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. A. Squamous cell carcinoma starts in the upper region of the epidermis, the top layer of skin.