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 The University of Nevada School of Medicine Department of Family and Community Medicine is the first institution to offer medical outreach and education to Nevada residents affected by the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site from 1951 to 1962.
Above ground nuclear weapons tests released radioactive substances into the air. As a result, Nevadans living in “downwind communities” or working at the Nevada Test Site were exposed to harmful radioactive materials.
Studies show that people exposed to radiation may be at higher risk for developing cancer. Regular screenings are an effective way to manage the increased risk. [Click here for more information about screenings]
To be eligible for the screening, Nevada citizens must have direct ties to above-ground nuclear testing whether it be as an employee at the test site or a resident in a downwind county. [Click here for more information about eligibility]
The Nevada RESEP Program was established to:
1. Identify and locate former Nevada Test Site workers and people living downwind of the site who were exposed to radiation from aboveground nuclear testing.
2. Provide medical screening to facilitate early detection and treatment of cancer and other health hazards associated with radiation.
3. Provide medical referral services to facilitate access to treatment.
4. Educate the public on radiation induced illnesses - including cancer. [Click here for more information about community outreach and
activities]
5. Assist eligible citizens to access the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. [Click here for more information about these services]
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Under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (passed by Congress in 1990), people directly affected by federal nuclear weapons testing may be eligible for up to $100,000 in compensation. However, navigating the bureaucracy to access those funds can be quite confusing. For that reason, the Nevada RESEP Program provides assistance. [Click here for more information about the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act]
Since 2005, the University of Nevada School of Medicine Department of Family and Community Medicine has received grant funding awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to administer the Nevada Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program (RESEP).
Our goal is to reach every person in the state of Nevada who was directly connected with above-ground nuclear testing to offer education on risks related to exposure to radiation and medical screening for early detection of cancer and other health hazards associated with radiation.
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