Radiation Poisoning & Toxic Exposure Disability Claims for Veterans

Many veterans were unknowingly exposed to dangerous radiation and toxic chemicals during their military service. Whether through nuclear testing, exposure to Agent Orange, burn pits, or hazardous environmental conditions, these exposures can lead to serious, life-threatening illnesses. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes a range of service-connected conditions related to radiation poisoning and toxic exposure, but proving eligibility for disability benefits can be complex and challenging.


Martin and Lerda is committed to helping veterans navigate the VA disability claims process to secure compensation for radiation and toxic exposure-related illnesses. With extensive experience in veterans' disability law, Martin and Lerda ensures that veterans receive the support and legal advocacy needed to document service connection and obtain the benefits they have rightfully earned.

A soldier is sitting in a wheelchair in a living room.

Understanding Radiation & Toxic Exposure in Military Service

Veterans may have been exposed to harmful radiation and toxic substances during service in various ways, including:

  • Nuclear weapons testing and cleanup operations
  • Exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation from military equipment
  • Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam War
  • Burn pits used for waste disposal in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other deployments
  • Chemical exposure from contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune
  • Radiation exposure from radar systems, nuclear submarines, or military medical treatments

These exposures can lead to long-term and severe health conditions, many of which may qualify for VA disability compensation.

Common Medical Conditions Linked to Radiation & Toxic Exposure

Veterans who were exposed to radiation or toxic substances during service may develop serious and life-threatening illnesses, including:

Radiation-Related Conditions

  • Leukemia and other blood cancers
  • Thyroid cancer and thyroid disorders
  • Lung cancer and respiratory illnesses
  • Liver, kidney, and bone cancers
  • Neurological disorders and cognitive impairments


Toxic Exposure-Related Conditions

  • Agent Orange-related illnesses, including diabetes and ischemic heart disease
  • Respiratory diseases from burn pit exposure
  • Lung cancer, COPD, and other chronic respiratory conditions
  • Skin disorders and chemical burns
  • Autoimmune diseases and organ damage



Some of these conditions are presumptively service-connected, meaning that the VA automatically recognizes them as related to military service for veterans who served in specific locations or circumstances. Other conditions require substantial medical evidence and service documentation to establish a service connection.

Proving Service Connection for Radiation & Toxic Exposure Claims

To receive VA disability compensation, a veteran must prove a service connection between their exposure and their illness. This process requires:

  • Medical diagnosis of a qualifying condition by a licensed professional.
  • Documentation of exposure during military service, such as deployment records or official reports of             exposure.
  • A medical nexus linking the illness to radiation or toxic exposure during service.

The VA has specific guidelines for granting benefits related to radiation exposure and toxic substances. Some conditions are automatically presumed to be service-connected, while others require additional evidence and medical opinions. Martin and Lerda works closely with veterans to gather the necessary documentation, medical records, and expert statements to strengthen their claims.

How Martin and Lerda Helps Veterans with Radiation & Toxic Exposure Claims

Filing a VA disability claim for radiation poisoning or toxic exposure requires a strategic legal approach to ensure that all necessary medical and service records are submitted correctly. Martin and Lerda provides:

  • Assistance in collecting service records and exposure documentation to establish a link between the illness and military service.
  • Collaboration with medical professionals to provide expert opinions on health conditions related to radiation or toxic exposure.
  • Guidance in filing a fully developed claim (FDC) to streamline the VA review process and avoid unnecessary delays.
  • Legal representation to ensure veterans receive the correct disability rating for their condition.


Veterans exposed to radiation and toxic substances deserve fair compensation for their service-related illnesses. Martin and Lerda ensures that veterans receive the support and advocacy they need to secure the benefits they are entitled to.


Additional Resources for Veterans Exposed to Radiation & Toxic Substances

Don’t Let the VA Stand Between You and the Benefits You Earned

Veterans who were exposed to radiation and toxic chemicals during military service should not have to struggle to prove their eligibility for VA benefits. Martin and Lerda is committed to ensuring that veterans receive the legal support, medical documentation, and advocacy needed to secure compensation for service-related illnesses.


Call (412) 271-6800 today to discuss your radiation or toxic exposure claim and take the next step toward securing your VA disability benefits.