Cancer in Iowa
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WATCH: What 50 years of Iowa cancer data actually shows (w/ Mary Charlton) – Cornhole Champions Interview
Dr. Mary Charlton directs the Iowa Cancer Registry, tracking cancer diagnoses across the state for over 50 years and helping researchers understand Iowa’s stubbornly high cancer rates. On this episode of Cornhole Champions, Zachary Oren Smith talks with Charlton about what the data really shows, why simple explanations for complex problems fall short, and the…
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The link between Iowa’s worsening water quality and rising cancer rate
Iowa’s rising cancer rate has many causes. Our worsening water quality is one.
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WATCH: Iowa has FASTEST growing cancer rate in America. Help us learn why (PT 3) – Cornhole Champions #32
Iowa faces a devastating cancer crisis, with the fastest growing rate of new cancers in the nation hitting close to home. On this episode of Cornhole Champions, Zachary Oren Smith, Amie Rivers, and Liz Fleming talk about a new investigation into Iowa’s cancer problem, sharing personal stories of loss and exploring potential causes from radon…
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Cancer in Iowa: Remembering those we’ve lost amid our joy
Iowa Starting Line editor reflects on the loss of her mom to cancer as her brother’s family welcomes a new baby.
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What are the most common types of cancer in Iowa?
Here are the most common types of cancer in Iowa in 2025, according to the Iowa Cancer Registry.
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What are some cancer screening and treatment options in Iowa?
Finding the right options for cancer screenings and treatment can be overwhelming. But Iowa has more options than you might expect. We’ve assembled some resources to help.
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What is behind Iowa’s cancer crisis?
Iowa has the second-highest cancer rate in the US, and the numbers keep climbing. What’s driving these cases?
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Free or low-cost resources for those facing cancer in Iowa
From cancer support groups in Iowa, to financial assistance for cancer patients, to wig donations and more, here are some places to start. Many of these places offer services at no charge.
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The Hot Spot: Why we’re investigating cancer in Iowa
Iowa Starting Line is launching “The Hot Spot: Investigating Cancer in Iowa,” a comprehensive look at why our state stands alone in its rising cancer rates.
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Cancer in Iowa: We want to hear your stories
Why is cancer in Iowa growing so fast? What are the causes? And how could our leaders be helping us?
























