Liver 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? Liver cancer is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer is a tumor that originates in the liver when the DNA of liver cells undergoes changes due to trauma of some sort and the cells begin to divide uncontrollably. What causes many cases of liver cancer is unclear, but some cases result from chronic liver infections caused by certain varieties of hepatitis, and excessive scarring (cirrhosis). Alcohol abuse, autoimmune diseases of the liver, chronic liver inflammation, and excess levels of iron in the body are all recognized as factors that contribute to the disease. Most liver cancers are of the hepatocellular carcinoma variety, and can be treated with surgery or a liver transplant if diagnosed early. However, due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages of the disease, most cases of liver cancer are diagnosed after the cancer has reached its later stages, when it is usually fatal within 3-6 months. Liver cancer occurs more often in men than in women and is most commonly diagnosed in those over age 50, though it can strike at any age.
Liver Cancer Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of liver cancer include:
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right-hand portion
- Abdominal swelling
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Jaundice
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
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 Liver Cancer
Liver cancer automatically qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with liver cancer then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with liver cancer, contact an experienced social security disability lawyer today. Please call us at 1-800-882-5500 or fill out a free consultation form for a free evaluation of your social security disability case.
