Abstract
This study examines the long-term effects of radiation exposure from U.S. atmospheric nuclear weapon tests on mortality and longevity. We analyze county-level radiation fallout data from tests conducted at the Nevada Test Site between 1951 and 1962, assessing its impact on individuals in the continental U.S. Using historical vital records we employ a difference-in-differences approach to compare mortality outcomes across counties with varying exposure levels. Our findings reveal significant negative effects on longevity for individuals exposed to high levels of radiation fallout. Those exposed before age 15 experience an average 25-month reduction in lifespan, while exposure after age 50 results in a 30-month reduction. For in-utero exposure, a 1% increase in I-131 during conception reduces the likelihood of surviving to ages 1, 3, and 50 by 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5%, respectively. Our findings have important implications for understanding the long-term public health consequences of nuclear events and inform policies related to nuclear energy and weapons testing.
