Primary service-connected condition

DC 7720 — Iron deficiency anemia

Also known as: Iron deficiency anemia

Mapped secondary conditions
1

These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.

Primary Secondary

Iron deficiency anemia Major depressive disorder

9434
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Chronic anemia causes depression through persistent fatigue, cognitive impairment, and reduced quality of life.

Filing tip

File depression as secondary to anemia with mental health records and lab results showing chronic low hemoglobin.

Relationship type: Caused by
View condition detail

This condition may also be secondary to

Anorexia nervosa
DC 9520
Strong

Anorexia causes iron deficiency anemia through nutritional deficiencies.

Celiac disease
DC 7355
Strong

Celiac disease is a leading cause of iron deficiency anemia through malabsorption.

Colitis, ulcerative
DC 7323
Strong

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease commonly cause iron deficiency anemia through chronic blood loss and malabsorption.

Crohn's disease or undifferentiated form of inflammatory bowel disease
DC 7326
Strong

Crohn's disease commonly causes anemia through chronic blood loss, malabsorption, and inflammation.

Renal disease, chronic
DC 7530
Strong

Chronic kidney disease commonly causes anemia due to reduced erythropoietin production.

Gastritis, chronic
DC 7307
Moderate

Chronic gastritis, especially autoimmune gastritis, impairs vitamin B12 and iron absorption, causing anemia.

Hemorrhoids, external or internal
DC 7336
Moderate

Chronic bleeding can cause iron-deficiency anemia

Nephritis, chronic
DC 7502
Moderate

Kidneys produce erythropoietin — disease reduces red blood cell production

Peptic ulcer disease
DC 7304
Moderate

Peptic ulcers can cause iron deficiency anemia through chronic GI blood loss.

How to File a Secondary Claim

1. Have your primary condition already service-connected.
2. Get diagnosed with the secondary condition.
3. Get a nexus letter from a doctor linking them.
4. File VA Form 21-526EZ and select the claim as a secondary claim.
5. Attend the C&P exam if one is scheduled.

Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.