Radiation exposure has long been a potential risk associated with military service, primarily for individuals who performed what Veterans Affairs refers to as "radiation-risk activities" (as defined in 38 CFR 3.309(d)(3)), including nuclear weapons testing, but these specific tests are not the only potential risk for those serving in the military to be exposed to harmful radiation levels.
In order to file a VA Disability claim for cancer related to radiation exposure, a veteran would need to be able to prove a connection between their cancer diagnosis and radiation exposure during military service.
Proving service-connection for radiation-related cancers can be difficult and complex. The more information you have before moving forward, the better.
Let's take a closer look at what cancers are associated with radiation exposure during military service.
