In short,
- A Downwinders claim can provide compensation for specific cancers linked to radiation exposure.
- Eligibility depends on where you lived and your cancer diagnosis.
- Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® offers help with filing claims.
A downwinders’ claim seeks compensation for people who developed certain cancers after being exposed to radiation from nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site. This information explains who is eligible, focusing on residents of Arizona, Nevada, and Utah.
Understanding the Downwinders Program
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was created to compensate “downwinders.” These are people who lived in specific areas near the Nevada Test Site and later developed certain cancers thought to be caused by the nuclear testing. RECA acknowledges the harm caused by this radiation exposure. The U.S. Department of Justice manages RECA.
The RECA program aims to provide some justice to those whose health was affected by the government’s actions. Understanding the specific requirements is important to find out if you or someone you know might be eligible for compensation.
Who are Utah Downwinders?
Utah downwinders are people who lived in certain counties in Utah when the government was testing nuclear weapons in the air, mostly from 1951 to 1962. Being close to the Nevada Test Site meant they had a higher risk of radiation exposure.
The Utah counties that usually qualify are Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Lincoln, Millard, Piute, Sevier, Washington, and Wayne. Living in one of these counties during that time is a key factor in determining if you are eligible.
Arizona and Nevada Residents: Downwinders Eligibility
Like Utah, people who lived in certain counties in Arizona and Nevada are also included in the Downwinders program. This is because radiation exposure affected people beyond just the area right around the testing site.
The Arizona counties that often qualify are Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, and Yavapai.
The Nevada counties that usually qualify are Clark, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Mineral, Nye, Pershing, White Pine, and Washoe.
Qualifying Cancers for a Downwinders Claim
To get compensation, you must have been diagnosed with one of the cancers listed under RECA. It’s important to know that not all cancers qualify.
The link between radiation exposure and some cancers is well-known, and RECA includes cancers that are more likely to be linked to this exposure. The list of qualifying cancers can be updated from time to time.
Common qualifying cancers include:
- Leukemia: A cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
- Thyroid Cancer: Cancer that starts in the thyroid gland in the neck.
- Lung Cancer: Cancer that starts in the lungs.
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell.
- Lymphomas: Cancers that start in the lymphatic system.
How to File a Downwinders Claim
Filing a downwinders claim can be complicated. You’ll need to gather medical records, proof of where you lived, and fill out the required forms. Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® can help you get started.
Dealing with the legal and paperwork side of things can be tough. Getting expert help can greatly improve your chances of having a successful claim. Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® provides support and resources to guide you through each step.
Key Steps in Filing a Claim:
- Collect your medical records that show your cancer diagnosis. These should clearly state the type of cancer and when you were diagnosed.
- Gather proof that you lived in a qualifying county during the required time period. This could be utility bills, property tax records, or other official papers.
- Fill out the RECA claim form carefully. Make sure all the information is correct and matches your supporting documents.
- Send all the required documents to the Department of Justice. Follow the instructions closely to avoid delays or having your claim rejected.
When to Seek Care Regarding a Downwinders’ Claim
If you lived in Arizona, Nevada, or Utah when the government was testing nuclear weapons and have been diagnosed with a qualifying cancer, you should think about filing a downwinders claim. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for managing cancer.
Getting help from Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® can help you understand your rights and handle the complicated claims process. We can guide you in gathering the necessary documents and filling out the forms.
Contact Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® at (855) 631-7197 to discuss your eligibility and receive assistance with the filing process.
Downwinders® Claims