Between 1946 and 1958, the Bikini Atoll nuclear testing exposed thousands of U.S. military members to harmful radiation. They did not know the health risks at the time. Many later developed cancers linked to this radiation.
Veterans from these tests deserve support for health problems caused by their service. The VA offers medical care and financial help. Let us discuss your options and how to get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Radiation Exposure from Nuclear Testing
Between 1946 and 1958, the United States conducted nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands. This included Operation Crossroads.
These tests exposed military members to high levels of radiation. It came from explosions above ground and underwater.
Working in Contaminated Areas
Service members:
- Worked in areas with high radiation
- Cleaned ships
- Handled radioactive materials
- Lived in contaminated zones
At the time, the military did not understand the health risks. It left many veterans at risk of long-term health problems.
Health Risks From Radiation
Radiation exposure has been linked to cancers like:
- Leukemia
- Thyroid cancer
- Lung cancer
These cancers can take years or even decades to appear. This means symptoms may not show up right away.
Presumptive Conditions for Atomic Veterans
The VA considers certain cancers as “presumptive conditions.” This is the case for veterans who were exposed to radiation during the Bikini Atoll nuclear testing.
This means veterans do not need to prove their cancer was caused by their service. The VA assumes it is linked to radiation exposure.
Cancers That Qualify
Qualifying cancers include:
- Some types of leukemia
- Thyroid cancer
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer, bone cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
Other Qualifying Cancers
The following cancers also qualify:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Colon
- Pancreas
- Ovaries
- Bladder
The VA may add more cancers to the list as research continues.
Requirements to be Eligible for Compensation
To qualify for compensation, veterans need to show they were part of nuclear testing. The VA requires proof that they served in certain places during specific times.
Military Records Needed
Documents like DD-214 forms, unit records, or personnel files can prove this. Veterans may also need to get records. They can find these in military archives or the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.
Where and When You Served
The time and place of service matter. Veterans must have served in the Marshall Islands, like Bikini Atoll, during nuclear testing. Other testing locations may also qualify.
Medical Records and Cancer Diagnosis
Veterans need medical records to show they have cancer. This includes pathology reports, treatment records, and doctor statements. The cancer must be on the VA’s list of conditions linked to radiation exposure.
The Claims Process
Here is what to expect during the claims process:
Starting Your Claim
To file a claim for cancer caused by radiation exposure, veterans must submit VA Form 21-526EZ. This form is used to request compensation for health problems related to military service.
It is important to include all relevant military records and medical documents with the application.
Compensation and Pension Exam
The VA may arrange a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This is to check if the disability is connected to military service.
Veterans must attend all scheduled exams. They will also need to provide their full medical history to the examiner.
Review and Decision
The claims process can take a long time and may need several months. The VA will review all the evidence and decide if the condition is related to service. If it is, they will then determine the disability rating.
If the VA asks for more information or documents, it is important to respond right away.
Appealing a Decision
If the VA denies the claim or assigns a low rating, veterans can appeal. They have one year from the decision date to file a Notice of Disagreement.
The appeals process gives veterans the chance to submit more evidence and explain their case again.
Compensation Amounts and Benefits
Let us look at compensation amounts and benefits.
Disability Ratings and Monthly Payments
Compensation is determined by the disability rating percentage. This percentage is given to the veteran.
Ratings range from 10 percent to 100 percent, based on how serious the condition is. Higher ratings result in larger monthly payments.
Extra Benefits for 100 Percent Ratings
Veterans with a 100 percent rating receive the highest monthly payments. They may also qualify for additional benefits. This includes Dependents’ Educational Assistance.
Severely disabled veterans may be eligible for Special Monthly Compensation. This will depend on their specific needs.
Healthcare Benefits
Disability compensation includes access to healthcare for conditions related to military service. Veterans receive priority care at VA medical facilities. This includes specialized cancer treatment and related medical services.
Survivor Benefits
Sometimes, a veteran passes away from service-connected cancer. In this case, their family may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation.
Spouses and children can receive monthly payments and other benefits. These survivor benefits provide financial support for families when they face challenging times.
Special Considerations for Atomic Veterans
Atomic veterans may have trouble with VA claims. This is because many service records are incomplete due to classified nuclear testing.
The VA has ways to help. Veterans can request records from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. Their unit files can also support their claims.
Even without full records, veterans might still qualify under the VA’s “reasonable doubt” rule. Experienced advocates can make the process easier.
Compensation for Cancer Linked to Bikini Atoll Nuclear Testing in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah
Many atomic veterans still deal with health problems years after their service. The VA offers benefits to help manage these conditions. Veterans should act quickly to claim the benefits they have earned through their service.
Trust Downwinders® to help you through the VA compensation process. Our team understands the hardships atomic veterans and their families face. Contact us today through our request Information form to learn how to file your claim, connect with peer support, or gain access to the resources that matter most to you. Our team will get in touch with you!
We look forward to serving you!
