Radioactive fallout from nuclear testing in the United States left a devastating legacy for thousands of Americans. Communities living downwind from test sites — commonly referred to as “downwinders” — were exposed to life-threatening radiation, leading to increased cancer rates.
Let us explore how radiation exposure caused cancer in downwinders, identifying affected areas, types of cancers linked to radiation, and options for compensation.
Who Are the Downwinders
Downwinders are individuals who lived near or downwind of nuclear test sites, primarily the Nevada Test Site, during periods of active testing. From 1951 to 1962, the Nevada Test Site conducted atmospheric nuclear tests.
Fallout from these tests settled over neighboring states such as Nevada, Utah, and Arizona, exposing nearby populations to radioactive particles.
Areas most affected include the following, as defined by the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA):
- Arizona Counties: Apache, Coconino, Gila, Navajo, and Yavapai
- Nevada Counties: Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Nye, White Pine, and northeastern Clark
- Utah Counties: Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Millard, Piute, San Juan, Sevier, Washington, and Wayne
Anyone who lived in these counties for at least two years during recognized testing periods or throughout July 1962 is considered a downwinder.
How Cancer Develops From Radiation Exposure
Radiation can damage cells in the body by altering their DNA. While some cells repair themselves after exposure, others do not heal correctly or at all. If this damage occurs in parts of the DNA that regulate cell growth and division, it can lead to cancer.
For instance, thyroid cancer is commonly seen in those exposed to iodine-131, a radioactive isotope released during nuclear testing. The thyroid gland absorbs iodine-131, increasing the risk of mutations within thyroid cells.
Similarly, inhaling radioactive particles can damage lung tissue and significantly increase the chance of lung cancer from radiation exposure over time.
Prolonged exposure to high levels of radiation can also suppress the immune system, making the body less capable of fighting abnormal cell growth, which is another factor behind cancer’s proliferation in Downwinders.
Types of Cancer from Radiation Exposure
The following types of cancer have been directly linked to radiation exposure in downwinders under RECA guidelines:
- Thyroid cancer
- Leukemia (excluding chronic lymphocytic leukemia)
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Colon cancer
- Liver cancer
- Esophagus cancer
- Pancreas cancer
- Brain cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Bladder cancer
- Small intestine cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Rectal cancer
- Gall bladder cancer
- Nasal pharynx cancer
- Bile duct cancer
- Lymphomas
These diseases may develop over decades, putting even later generations at risk.
Emotional and Social Impact on Downwinders
The suffering of downwinders goes beyond physical health. Families have faced heart-wrenching losses, financial stress from treatments, and a deep sense of injustice. Many downwinders struggled to understand what was happening to them until long after nuclear testing ended, intensifying their pain and frustration.
Survivors often share stories of increased cancer cases within families and whole communities devastated by disease. This collective grief has fueled efforts for recognition, compensation, and advocacy.
Your Options for Seeking Compensation for Cancer from Radiation Exposure As a Downwinder
Under RECA, individuals diagnosed with specific cancer from radiation exposure may qualify for a one-time, tax-free compensation payment of $50,000. Even if the affected individual has passed away, their living spouse, children, or grandchildren can apply for the claim on their behalf.
Steps for Filing a Claim as a Downwinder
If you or your loved ones were exposed to radioactive fallout during the specified periods and are suffering from or have suffered from one of the listed cancers, you may be eligible for compensation. To get started, follow these steps:
Verify Your Eligibility
Confirm that you lived in one of the RECA-designated areas between January 21, 1951, and October 31, 1958, or during July 1962. Ensure your diagnosis matches one of the recognized cancers.
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect proof of residence from the affected years, such as utility bills, tax records, or school records. Obtain medical records that confirm your diagnosis, including pathology reports and physician statements.
File Your Claim
Submit the RECA claim form through the appropriate government channels. Prepare to include your supporting documents along with your application.
Get Compensation for Cancer from Radiation Exposure in Nevada, Arizona and Utah
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with cancer from radiation exposure and lived in an affected area during the specified timeframe, you may qualify for assistance through the Downwinders program.
At Downwinders®, our team of highly trained and skilled providers can guide you through the process of filing a claim, ensuring you understand your rights and the steps to take. We can also help you check your eligibility, gather necessary documentation, and file your claim for you.
Give us a call today at 1 (855) 631-7197 to learn more about how we can help you. We look forward to serving you!
Downwinders® Claims