Gallbladder Cancer and Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability Lawyer

Typically, applying for and receiving social security disability benefits can take many months.  But what if your disabling condition is so severe that you cannot wait? Gallblader cancer is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.

What is Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer begins in the gallbladder, a pear-­‐shaped organ that sits on the right-­‐hand side of the abdomen, just beneath the liver. The gallbladder is a storage receptacle for bile, a liver-­‐produced digestive fluid. Gallbladder cancer begins in the innermost layers of the organ and spreads outwards as it grows; it can also metastasize to other areas of the body. Gallbladder cancer is a rare cancer, and due to the lack of observable symptoms early on in the course of the disease, is often diagnosed in its later stages when the prognosis is poor. Surgical removal of the gallbladder is the preferred method of treatment, though in some cases, surgery is not possible.

Gallbladder Cancer Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of gallbladder cancer include:

• Abdominal pain
• Lumps in the abdomen
• Jaundice
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Bloating
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk with a doctor immediately.

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits and Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer automatically qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines.  If you or a loved one is diagnosed with gallbladder cancer, then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis.