Cancer Incidence Rising in Iowa

Discussions about cancer in the United States have frequently concentrated on regions like ‘Cancer Alley’ in the Deep South, or the Appalachian states, known for high smoking rates. Recently, attention has shifted to Iowa, which now finds itself in the spotlight due to its high cancer rates.

Iowa ranks second in the nation for cancer incidence. It stands out as one of only three states where cancer rates are currently on the rise. This alarming trend is drawing significant concern and prompting efforts to understand the underlying causes.

Fred de Sam Lazaro, a special correspondent, explores the situation in Iowa, uncovering the factors contributing to the state’s increasing cancer rates.

Fred de Sam Lazaro serves as the director of the Under-Told Stories Project at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. With a focus on international journalism and education, he has been part of PBS NewsHour since 1985, contributing as a regular correspondent and substitute anchor for PBS’ Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.

Another voice on this topic is Sam Lane, a reporter and producer for PBS NewsHour’s segment unit, who collaborates to bring these critical stories to light.