Bikini Atoll is one of the smaller islands that make up the Marshall Islands. This island was used as a nuclear testing site by the United States government until 1958, and, unfortunately, those testing efforts led to the contamination of the island that caused it to be uninhabitable for many years. Veterans that worked with the government on this project sometimes develop certain forms of cancer. 

How do you know if you qualify for compensation due to exposure?

Veterans that were part of the original nuclear testing efforts or those that were directed back to the island for later efforts may have been exposed to dangerous levels of cancer-causing compounds. If you were part of these efforts, it is best to talk to an attorney who is familiar with the Bikini Atoll processes efforts and the compensation that may be available. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, make sure you have documented medical information showing your diagnosis and any documentation you have that proves you were in the area as part of the governmental efforts. 

Can you be compensated to cover the costs of cancer treatment caused by the time spent at Bikini Atoll?

If it can be proven that your cancer is directly related to being affiliated with Bikini Atoll nuclear testing efforts, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the costs of your cancer treatment. In addition, if you have dealt with pain and suffering due to the diagnosis or other costs, it is important that you discuss these things with your attorney. While there is never a guarantee that you will win your claim, it is well worth the efforts to include all of the costs that you have incurred due to your diagnosis. 

What if you were not on Bikini Atoll island very long while you were in service?

Even some veterans who did not spend a great deal of time on Bikini Atoll island have developed cancer due to the exposure to nuclear elements. Therefore, it really doesn't matter if you did not spend a lot of time on the island during your time spent in service. As long as you can show that you were stationed on the island at some point, you have proof that you could have been exposed to cancer-causing agents. So, you definitely discuss your situation with a qualified legal services provider to get advice if you were ever stationed at Bikini Atoll.