Downwinder refers to individuals living in communities that were exposed to radioactive fallout resulting from nuclear weapons testing. During the period between 1945 and 1962, the United States conducted numerous above-ground nuclear tests, with a significant concentration of these tests occurring in Nevada.
The aftermath of these tests has had lasting repercussions for those living downwind of the testing sites, leading to a condition commonly known as “downwinders syndrome.” Let’s discuss what you can do if you or a family member has downwinders syndrome.
Definition of Downwinders and Impact
Downwinders lived in communities downwind of the Nevada nuclear testing site during the Cold War, which includes parts of Arizona and Utah, also known as the desert belt. The fallout, containing radioactive isotopes, was carried by wind currents, affecting areas located downwind from the test sites. Downwinders often face a myriad of health issues attributed to radiation exposure.
“Downwinders syndrome” encompasses a range of long-term health issues attributed to exposure to radioactive fallout.
Symptoms of Downwinders Syndrome
The symptoms associated with downwinders syndrome can vary widely and may include:
- Cancers – Downwinders are at an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, such as thyroid cancer, leukemia, and other forms of radiation-induced cancers.
- Thyroid Disorders – Heightened prevalence of thyroid abnormalities due to exposure to radioactive iodine, leading to thyroid nodules, hypothyroidism, or other thyroid-related complications.
- Other Health Complications – Downwinders also have higher incidences of respiratory issues, birth defects, and neurological disorders.
What’s Next for Downwinders?
Victims of downwinders syndrome can take several steps to address their situation and seek support:
#1 Medical Monitoring and Treatment – Regular medical screenings and monitoring for potential health issues are crucial for early detection and intervention. Seeking medical attention for any concerning symptoms is vital.
#2 Accessing Compensation Programs – Exploring available compensation programs, such as the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), designed to provide financial assistance to individuals suffering from health conditions related to radiation exposure from nuclear testing.
What is the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act?
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) is designed to provide support and compensation to individuals and their eligible survivors, known as “downwinders,” who were exposed to radioactive fallout from nuclear testing downwind of the Nevada Test Site.
If you or a deceased family member have been/was diagnosed with a covered cancer in the last 65 years and have lived in a coverage area for a period of two years between January 21, 1951, and October 31, 1958, and during the month of July 1962, you (or on behalf of your deceased family member, as an eligible survivor) may be eligible for compensation.
Covered cancers include:
- Thyroid Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Small Intestine Cancer
- Salivary Gland Cancer
- Rectal Cancer
- Pancreas Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Lymphoma
- Nasopharynx Cancer
- Multiple Myeloma
- Lung Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Leukemia
- Gallbladder Cancer
- Esophagus Cancer
- Colon Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Brain Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Bile Duct Cancer
Coverage areas in Arizona include:
- Apache
- Coconino
- Gila
- Navajo
- Yavapai
Coverage areas in Nevada include:
- Eureka
- Lander
- Lincoln
- Nye
- White Pine
- Northeastern portion of Clark
Coverage areas in Utah include:
- Beaver
- Garfield
- Iron
- Kane
- Millard
- Piute
- San Juan, Sevier
- Washington
How Can the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act Help?
Dealing with downwinders syndrome can be challenging. Physical implications are usually chronic and life-long. The act offers assistance to you and your eligible family members, which is provided to you by the federal government.
Here are some ways in which the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act can help downwinders such as yourself:
#1 Compensation – RECA provides the opportunity for eligible downwinders to receive a one-time, lump sum compensation of $50,000. This financial assistance is partly an apology which acknowledges the health challenges faced by downwinders due to radiation exposure and is non-taxable.
#2 Medical Support – In addition to the lump sum compensation, the act may also include provisions for medical support and care, acknowledging the long-term health implications of radiation exposure experienced by downwinders like you and members of your family.
Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders Can Help You File Your Claim
Downwinders Cancer Benefits Center specializes in helping affected individuals file their claim for compensation through the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA).
We have a team of experts who can help you with the following:
- Determining your eligibility for filing a downwinders claim
- Document preparation throughout the claim process
- Extra assistance from our research department to help you with any special documents you may need to complete the requirements for your claim
- Extra assistance from our investigative branch if the research department is unable to obtain any special documents necessary for filing a claim
We work hard so you do not have to and are highly committed to helping you receive your benefits as quickly as possible. Downwinders Cancer Benefits Center has a call center that you can call 24-7 – and a friendly staff very pleased to help you when it is most convenient to you.
You may reach us at +1 (855) 631-7197 or fill out our Downwinders application form to contact us. We look forward to assisting you.
Downwinders® Claims