Pre-existing hypertension vs. Secondary to Diabetes II

[VietnamVetSis]

My brother was diagnosed with hypertension and unqualified for duty on his induction exam into the USMC.   Two weeks later they took more blood pressure tests, found them normal, and crossed through all of the previous disqualifying remarks.  I saw a VA citation where the same thing happened to another veteran, and the board decided they must use the 'final' exam results therefore disallowing hypertension as pre-existing.   Am I better off just submitting the hypertension claim as secondary to Diabetes Mellitus II (from exposure to Agent Orange - has current diagnosis)?   If they deny it as pre-existing, will they 'automatically' say it is secondary ?  By initially claiming it as pre-existing, do I screw up my brother's chances for making a second go at it as secondary?   If anyone has any scientific evidence recognized by the VA linking combat trauma to hypertension, this would be appreciated too.   Thank you in advance ...

[broncovet]

File both ways...never limit your options.  File it secondary and primary.  It will likely save you time and denials.