When it comes to the adverse health effects of nuclear testing, the term ‘downwinders’ has become synonymous with those who have suffered the most.
Living in the path of radioactive fallout, these individuals have often faced health issues such as cancer and other serious diseases. If you or a loved one identify as a downwinder, this comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to complete your downwinders application for compensation under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA).
Who Are Downwinders?
‘Downwinders’ is a term that has been coined to represent individuals who were exposed to radioactive fallout from nuclear tests conducted in the mid-20th century. These individuals were living in certain areas of Arizona, Nevada, or Utah during specific periods of nuclear testing and have developed specific types of cancers or other serious diseases due to this exposure.
Understanding RECA
Established in 1990, the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was designed to provide compensation to individuals who have developed certain types of diseases as a result of exposure to radiation from nuclear weapons testing and uranium mining, milling, or transporting.
To qualify for RECA benefits, there are specific criteria that individuals must meet.
- For uranium miners, millers, and ore transporters, the individual must have worked in a covered uranium mine for at least one year or have been exposed to 40 or more working-level months of radiation. The individual must also have developed a disease associated with radiation exposure, such as lung cancer or other non-malignant respiratory diseases.
- For onsite participants (military or civilian personnel and contractors who participated onsite in an above-ground nuclear test), the individual must have been present at one of the designated test sites during a period of atmospheric nuclear testing and developed a disease associated with radiation exposure.
- For downwinders, the individual must have lived in certain areas affected by nuclear fallout during specific periods and developed certain types of cancers or other serious diseases.
Understanding the Eligibility Criteria for Downwinders Application
Starting the application process for the Downwinders compensation program under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) requires careful consideration of your eligibility. The federal government has set specific criteria to be met before an individual can qualify for this compensation.
Firstly, to be eligible for the Downwinders program, you must have been physically present in certain designated areas during the specified timeframes mentioned above. These areas include parts of Arizona, Nevada, and Utah.
In Arizona, eligible areas include:
- Apache
- Coconino
- Gila
- Navajo
- Yavapai
- Area north of the Grand Canyon
- A portion of Mojave that lies north of the Colorado River
In Nevada, the eligible areas include:
- Eureka
- Lander
- Lincoln
- Nye
- White Pine
- The northern portion of Clark
In Utah, the eligible area includes:
- Beaver
- Garfield
- Iron
- Kane
- Millard
- Piute
- San Juan
- Sevier
- Washington
- Wayne
The timeframes for which you must have been present in these areas are either January 21, 1951, through October 31, 1958 (for at least 2 years during this period), or June 30, 1962, through July 31, 1962.
Secondly, you must have developed certain types of cancer or other serious diseases that are known to be caused by radiation exposure. These diseases include various types of cancer, such as:
- Bile duct cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Brain cancer
- Breast cancer (male or female)
- Colon cancer
- Esophagus cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Leukemias (except for chronic lymphocytic leukemia)
- Liver cancer (except cirrhosis or hepatitis b)
- Lung cancer
- Lymphomas (except for Hodgkin’s disease)
- Multiple myeloma
- Nasal pharynx cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreas cancer
- Rectal cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
- Small intestine cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Thyroid cancer
It’s important to note that children, spouses, and grandchildren can also file for compensation on behalf of their deceased loved ones who meet the eligibility criteria.
The Downwinders Application Process
The downwinders application process involves several steps:
Obtain the Application Form
The first step in your downwinders application is to obtain the correct form. You can download the Downwinder application form from the U.S. Department of Justice’s website.
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the Downwinder application form with all the necessary details. This includes personal information, residence history, medical information, and more. Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete to avoid any processing delay.
Gather Supporting Documentation
Along with your downwinders application, you’ll need to provide documentation supporting your claim. This includes medical records showing a diagnosis of a covered illness, proof of residence in the affected areas during the specified periods, and any other evidence.
Submit the Application
Once you’ve completed the form and gathered all necessary documentation, submit your downwinders application to the U.S. Department of Justice. You can mail your application to the address provided on the form.
Wait for a Response
After submitting your downwinders application, you must wait for a response. The Department of Justice reviews each application carefully, which can take some time.
Get Help with Downwinders Application
Applying for compensation through the downwinders application can be a complex process, but it’s essential for those who have suffered due to nuclear testing. If you’re eligible and seek help, don’t hesitate to reach us here at the National Cancer Benefits Center (NCBC).
Our highly experienced experts help individuals collect compensation for cancer caused by government-created radiation. We also offer investigative research services to help gather the necessary documentation needed to prove your eligibility for radiation exposure compensation.
For further information, contact us at (800) 414-4328 or use our online form. We look forward to serving you!
