About Cancer
Cancer refers to a group of diseases in which abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably, damaging surrounding tissues and organs. Normally, cells in the body divide in a controlled way to replace damaged or dead cells. Cancer cells, however, continue multiplying without normal regulation, which can lead to serious complications throughout the body and, in some cases, become life-threatening.
There are more than 100 different types of cancer, each varying in how they develop, spread, and respond to treatment. Some cancers respond well to chemotherapy, while others may require surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
Social Security Disability and Cancer
The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates cancer-related disability claims under Section 13.00 of the Blue Book, which covers malignant neoplastic diseases.
This section contains numerous listings for specific types of cancer and outlines the medical criteria necessary to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Some cancers qualify automatically based on severity, while others may qualify only if treatment is unsuccessful or the cancer continues to spread or recur.
Types of Cancer Evaluated by the SSA
The SSA evaluates many forms of cancer under Section 13.00, including:
Soft tissue cancers of the head and neck
Skin cancer
Lymphoma
Leukemia
Multiple myeloma
Thyroid cancer
Breast cancer
Lung cancer
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Kidney and bladder cancer
Prostate cancer
Testicular cancer
Malignant melanoma
Nervous system cancers
Gastrointestinal cancers
Bone cancers
If a specific cancer type does not meet a Blue Book listing, the SSA may still evaluate how the condition affects the individual’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
How the SSA Evaluates Cancer Claims
When reviewing a cancer disability claim, the SSA considers several important factors, including:
The origin of the cancer
The extent and severity of the disease
The duration and effectiveness of treatment
The long-term effects of treatment and therapy
The SSA typically requires medical evidence documenting:
The type of cancer
The location of the cancer
Whether the cancer has spread or returned
Surgical reports and pathology findings
Imaging studies and treatment records
If certain records are unavailable, the SSA may still consider other medical reports or hospitalization records related to the cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment itself can cause serious side effects and lasting complications, even if the treatment successfully controls the cancer. The SSA refers to these as post-therapeutic residual impairments.
Common side effects and complications may include:
Gastrointestinal problems
Chronic weakness or fatigue
Neurological complications
Cardiovascular problems
Mental or emotional conditions related to treatment
The SSA evaluates each case individually because treatment methods, side effects, and long-term complications can vary significantly from person to person.
Compassionate Allowances for Cancer
The Social Security Administration uses a Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program to fast-track disability claims involving severe medical conditions that clearly meet disability standards.
Many aggressive or advanced forms of cancer qualify under this program, allowing eligible applicants to receive faster disability decisions with minimal medical documentation.
The SSA Three-Year Rule for Cancer
After an individual is approved for disability benefits due to cancer, the SSA generally continues to consider the person disabled for at least three years following complete remission.
If the cancer remains in remission for three years without recurrence or metastasis, the SSA may determine that the individual is no longer disabled under its rules.
Common Cancer Terms Used by the SSA
Anticancer Therapy
Treatment methods used to fight cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, or transplantation.
Inoperable
A condition where surgery cannot be safely performed or would not provide medical benefit.
Metastases
The spread of cancer cells from one part of the body to another through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Multimodal Therapy
The use of two or more cancer treatments within a short time period, such as surgery followed by radiation or chemotherapy.
Persistent Cancer
Cancer that remains present despite treatment efforts.
Progressive Cancer
Cancer that continues worsening even after treatment has begun.
Recurrent or Relapsed Cancer
Cancer that returns after previously being removed or placed into remission.
Unresectable Cancer
Cancer that cannot be completely removed through surgery.