August Is Appendix Cancer Awareness Month

Submitted by Elizabeth on

Appendix cancer is often a debilitating illness. If you have this condition, you may find it difficult or even impossible to keep a job and pay your bills. 

Keep reading to learn more about potential options in this scenario. In recognition of Appendix Cancer Awareness Month, the following guide will explain the basics of appendix cancer and disability benefits, helping you determine how you may seek financial assistance from the US federal government. 

What is Appendix Cancer? 

Appendix cancer, also known as appendiceal cancer, comes in two main forms:

  • Epithelial appendiceal cancer
  • Neuroendocrine appendiceal cancer 

Appendix cancer is a fairly rare form of cancer. Currently, it affects about one to two individuals for every million people in the United States every year. People are most likely to develop this condition between the ages of 50 and 55 years old, but there are exceptions. 

It’s not uncommon for a person to experience no noticeable symptoms when appendix cancer first develops. Symptoms a patient may eventually experience include:

  • Bloating
  • A larger waistline
  • Pain 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting 
  • Appendicitis
  • Bowel function changes
  • Fertility issues 
  • Quickly feeling full after beginning to eat 

See your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms. As with all forms of cancer, the sooner you receive treatment, the better. 

Does Appendix Cancer Qualify For Disability Benefits?  

Depending on the severity of their condition, someone with appendix cancer may struggle to work and earn an income. In these circumstances, they might qualify for disability benefits through the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). 

The SSA’s Blue Book is a resource describing the conditions that might qualify applicants for disability benefits. Although it doesn’t have a listing for appendix cancer specifically, it does have a listing offering information on cancer and disability benefits in general. 

Review the listing on cancer and disability benefits to learn more about whether you might qualify for benefits to help you cover your basic needs. Be aware, someone with appendix cancer may qualify for a compassionate allowance. If you qualify for a compassionate allowance, the SSA may expedite the process of approving your application for benefits. 

How To Apply For Disability Benefits With Appendix Cancer 

There are three main ways to apply for disability benefits:

You will typically need the following documentation when applying for disability benefits:

  • Birth certificate or similar proof of birth document 
  • Proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful alien
  • U.S. military discharge papers if you served in the military before 1968
  • Recent W-2 forms (or self-employment tax documents, if applicable)
  • Documentation of other benefits you may have already received, such as workers’ compensation settlements 

You will also need to provide medical evidence showing you have appendix cancer and that your condition limits your ability to work. Be aware, it’s not uncommon for the SSA to deny initial applications, requiring applicants to provide additional medical evidence. 

Get Help With Your Disability Claim 

Do you have appendix cancer? Do you believe you may qualify for disability benefits? If so, consider reviewing your case with a disability lawyer. An attorney with experience handling cases involving cancer and disability benefits can help you submit a strong application to the SSA—ultimately giving you a higher likelihood of getting approved. Get started today by taking the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected and speak with a lawyer representing clients like yourself—all at zero cost to you.  

Additional Resources 

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