Radiation, SHAD & Nuclear Test Ships
Atomic veterans, cleanup crews, test-ship sailors and Project SHAD participants: VA presumes 21 cancers for veterans who took part in a radiation-risk activity.
These include:
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atmospheric nuclear tests
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the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
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the cleanups at Enewetak, Palomares and Thule
If your cancer or illness isn’t on the list, you may still qualify. VA can grant it after estimating your radiation dose.
This page covers:
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both ways to qualify, presumptive and dose review
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the nuclear test ships
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Project SHAD testing
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the records you’ll need from DTRA and DoD
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RECA compensation and how it works with VA benefits
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real-world examples and links to official VA sources and the law
Download the free Radiation & SHAD Claim Kit. It has an exposure history worksheet, a records request tracker, a doctor’s opinion request, and statement pages that link to our Statement Writer.
Veterans Claims Education provides education only and does not assist with or file claims. For help filing, contact an accredited VSO, attorney or claims agent.