A downwinder is someone who has been or is thought to have been exposed to radiation during and after nuclear tests at the Nevada Test Site in the 50s and 60s.
The radioactive material released from these tests is called “fallout” and it was carried by the wind hundreds of miles from the testing site. People who lived near the testing site at the time were exposed to different levels of radiation. They developed and are at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. To prevent and diagnose cancer early, regular cancer screening is crucial for downwinders.
Let’s explore common types of cancers in downwinders and why regular cancer screening is crucial for them.
Types of Cancers Downwinders Can Develop?
Downwinders are at an increased risk of developing cancers and other diseases because of their exposure to radioactive fallout. Radioactive fallout contains carcinogens, which are substances that can cause cancer.
Common types of Downwinder’s cancer include:
- Thyroid Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Small Intestine Cancer
- Salivary Gland Cancer
- Rectal Cancer
- Pancreas Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Lymphoma
- Nasal Pharynx Cancer
- Multiple Myeloma
- Lung Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Leukemia
- Gall Bladder Cancer
- Esophagus Cancer
- Colon Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Brain Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Bile Duct Cancer
Importance of Regular Screening for Downwinders
The primary reason for regular cancer tests for downwinders is to catch cancer in its early stages, where it is most treatable. Early detection of cancer can allow for more effective treatment and better health outcomes.
If cancer is caught late, it can spread to other parts of the body, making it more difficult to control and treat. The earlier cancer is diagnosed and treated, the greater the chances of survival.
Second, regular cancer testing helps downwinders reduce their worries and concerns about potential health risks. Knowing cancer status can provide them peace of mind and allow them to better manage their health and well-being.
Lastly, regular cancer tests can help to identify downwinders at an increased risk for developing certain types of cancer. This information can be used to develop targeted prevention and screening programs.
The Advocacy for Regular Cancer Tests
Many downwinders feel that the government has failed to adequately protect their health and adequately compensate them for the injuries they have sustained due to radiation exposure. As part of their advocacy efforts, downwinders advocate for better access to routine cancer testing.
They argue that regular cancer testing should be offered to downwinders at no cost as a way to acknowledge the damage done to them. They also advocate for increased awareness of the dangers of radiation exposure and better education about the significance of routine cancer testing.
It’s pertinent to mention here that the federal Health Resources & Services Administration funds clinics in Arizona, CO, NM, NV, and UT as a part of the CDC’s National Exposure Screening and Education Program. They provide cancer screenings to people exposed to radiation who are downwinders, participants at the nuclear test site in Nevada, uranium miners, millers, and or transporters.
Downwinder’s Cancer Compensation Program
In 1990, Congress passed the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), which provides compensation of $50,000 for downwinders who have developed certain cancers. However, RECA does not cover all downwinders or all types of cancer.
The act was originally set to expire July 10, 2022. But, on June 7, 2022, the President of the United States extended the program for two more years.
If you or your loved ones have been diagnosed with covered cancer or leukemia within the last 65 years and have lived in downwind areas, contact us at Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® today to find out if you are eligible for compensation.
If you want more information about the compensation program for Downwinders, call us today at 1 (855) 631-7197. We look forward to helping you!
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