Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Brain Tumors
A brain tumor is a growth of cells in the brain or near it. Nearby locations include nerves, the pituitary gland, the pineal gland, and the membranes that cover the surface of the brain. Brain tumors that begin in the brain are called primary brain tumors. Sometimes, cancer spreads to the brain from other parts of the body. These tumors are secondary brain tumors, also called metastatic brain tumors.
Non-cancerous brain tumors may grow over time and press on the brain tissue. Malignant brain tumors on the other hand may grow quickly, with cancer cells invading and destroying the brain tissue. Treatment options depend on the type of brain tumor you have, as well as its size and location. Common treatments include surgery and radiation therapy. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 13.13 of the Blue Book.
Do Brain Tumors Qualify for Disability?
The SSA doesn’t outline eligibility criteria explicitly for brain tumors, but it does devote a significant amount of detail to cancer as a broad category. The SSA also discusses brain tumors under the category of primary nervous system cancers (Section 13.13).
Although there are dozens of different types of brain tumors that could qualify for benefits, the most common types are:
- Metastases. These occur when cancer has spread from another part of the body to the brain. Lung cancer, breast cancer and melanoma are the most common primary sources. Breast cancer and ovarian cancer with metastasis qualify for automatic medical eligibility.
- Meningioma. These are typically non-cancerous tumors found in the outer layer(s) between the brain tissue and skull.
- Glioblastoma. This is also called a grade IV astrocytoma and is an aggressive tumor in the brain tissues.
- Astrocytoma (Grades 1-3). This is the most common type of brain tumor found in adults, originating in the brain cells.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumor and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
