Cancer is a serious illness that affects millions of people around the world each year. It happens when cells in our bodies grow and divide in an uncontrolled way.
One big reason cancer can develop is exposure to radiation. Radiation is energy that comes from both natural sources, like sunlight, and man-made sources, such as X-rays and nuclear power plants. However, not all types of radiation affect our bodies the same way when it comes to the risk of getting cancer.
Let’s explore what radiation exposure cancer is and the different kinds of radiation that can lead to cancer. We will also talk about the effects of nuclear testing, especially tests done in the atmosphere, and the help available for those who have been affected.
Understanding Radiation Exposure
Radiation is energy that travels through space – it can come from natural sources like the sun or from man-made sources like X-ray machines.
Radiation exposure is how much radiation energy our bodies take in. It is a big concern because it can harm the cells in our bodies and may lead to cancer over time.
Radiation can damage DNA in our cells. When DNA gets damaged, cells can start to grow uncontrollably, which may lead to radiation exposure cancer.
That is why it is important to understand the types of radiation exposure that can cause cancer, especially for at-risk groups like veterans.
Types of Radiations
There are two main types of radiation we should worry about when it comes to cancer risk: ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
Ionizing Radiation
Ionizing radiation is the most dangerous kind – it has a lot of energy and can knock electrons off atoms, creating ions. This can damage our DNA and lead to cancer. Some examples are X-rays, gamma rays, and particles from radioactive materials.
Non-Ionizing Radiation
Non-ionizing radiation has less energy and does not knock out electrons, but it can still be harmful if we are exposed to it for a long time. Examples include ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, microwaves, and radio waves.
Nuclear Testing and Radiation Exposure in Veterans
Nuclear tests, especially those conducted in the atmosphere during the mid-20th century, have greatly increased radiation exposure. These tests released a lot of radioactive material into the environment, affecting many people.
Atmospheric Nuclear Tests
Atmospheric nuclear tests involved setting off nuclear bombs above the ground, which released dangerous radioactive particles into the air. These particles can travel far and settle on the ground, getting into the food we eat. Veterans and people living close to test sites were especially at risk.
The fallout from these tests included harmful substances like strontium-90 and cesium-137. These can be breathed in or swallowed, and they build up in our bodies, raising the chances of getting cancer from radiation, especially in the thyroid, bones, and blood.
Health Effects on Veterans
Veterans who took part in nuclear tests or lived near the test sites were exposed to a lot of radiation. Studies show that these veterans have higher rates of leukemia, thyroid cancer, and other types of cancer.
Compensation for Radiation Exposure Cancer
There are programs to help veterans and other people who got sick from radiation due to nuclear testing. These programs provide financial support and healthcare for those who developed cancer from this exposure.
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA)
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) is a federal program that helps people who developed certain cancers or serious illnesses because of radiation from nuclear tests. It covers:
- On-site participants: Veterans and civilians who took part in the tests.
- Downwinders: People who lived downwind of the test sites and were exposed to the fallout.
- Uranium workers: Workers involved in mining and processing uranium.
How to Apply for Compensation for Radiation Exposure Cancer
If you think you might qualify for help under RECA, here’s what to do:
Gather Documentation
Collect your medical records, service records, and any other papers that support your claim about radiation exposure cancer.
Submit an Application
Fill out the RECA application form and send it along with your documents. The Department of Justice runs the program and can help you with the application.
Seek Legal Assistance
You might want to get consulting services to make sure your application is complete and correct. Counsellors who know about RECA claims can help guide you through the process.
Get Help to File a Claim for Radiation Exposure Cancer
If you or someone you know has been affected by radiation and is dealing with a cancer diagnosis, it is important to know what help is available.
At the National Cancer Benefits Center, we help veterans who have cancer caused by radiation get the support and money they deserve. We can guide you on how to determine your eligibility for compensation and file compensation on your behalf.
To learn about compensation for radiation exposure cancer, call us today at (800) 414-4328 or request more information here. We look forward to serving you!