To file for Gastrointestinal Conditions, we will need you to complete a statement describing how you believe this condition was caused by your time in the service and how it affects you to this day. How do you believe your Gastrointestinal Conditions were caused by your time in service? Please use the prompts below to best determine how you believe your Gastrointestinal Conditions are service-connected, then fill out the appropriate statement form. If you believe your condition was caused by multiple factors below, please select the factor that outweighs the rest, and then be sure to mention all applicable service-connected reasoning within your statement.

Toxic Exposure - Service members who are exposed to environmental hazards during their military service, such as industrial chemicals or toxic agents, may be at an increased risk for developing GI conditions. Exposure to these hazards can damage the lining of the digestive tract and cause inflammation, which can lead to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or chronic gastritis. If you believe your ****Gastrointestinal Conditions were caused by toxic exposure, please click this link to complete your statement.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/presumptions

Direct & Chronicity - Service members who consume contaminated food or water during their military service may develop GI conditions as a result of exposure to harmful bacteria or parasites. This can lead to conditions such as gastroenteritis, which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. If you believe your Gastrointestinal Conditions were caused by a direct injury from the military or chronicity due to your military responsibilities, please click this link to complete your statement.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/directchronicity

Secondary to other Service-Connected conditions - The physical and emotional stress associated with military service can also contribute to the development of GI conditions. Stress can cause changes in the digestive system that lead to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or peptic ulcers. If you believe your Gastrointestinal Conditions were caused by another already service-connected condition, please click this link to complete your statement.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/secondaryserviceconnection