Iowa Tackles High Cancer Rates with New Research and Legislation

State Rep. Christian Hermanson provides update on efforts to address the state's cancer challenges

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:48pm

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Iowa continues to have the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses in the country, behind Kentucky. A new $1 million state-funded cancer research project has provided detailed data on the health challenges the state faces, noting that while mortality rates are declining and survivorship is at an all-time high, the cause of the upward divergence from national trends starting around 2013 has yet to be identified. The legislature has taken steps to support patients and prevention efforts, including expanding biomarker testing, providing protections for firefighters, and requiring radon testing in schools. New initiatives for the 2026 session include reforms to insurance 'prior authorization' rules, requiring radon mitigation in new housing, and improving data on water quality in rural areas.

Why it matters

Iowa's high cancer rates are a significant public health concern, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. The state's proactive approach to addressing this issue through research and legislation demonstrates a commitment to improving the health and well-being of its residents.

The details

The 2026 Cancer in Iowa report found that while behavioral factors like obesity, smoking, and alcohol use are significant drivers, there was a noticeable upward divergence from national trends starting around 2013. Researchers from the University of Iowa College of Public Health emphasized the need for better monitoring system data to fully understand any potential long-term environmental risks. The report also noted that Iowa farmers have 13% fewer cancer cases than the general population, likely due to lower smoking rates and better overall fitness. However, a major concern remains for young adults aged 20 to 39, where Iowa ranks second-highest in the country for cancer incidence.

  • The 2026 Cancer in Iowa report was presented to the joint meeting of the House Health and Human Services and Environmental Protection Committees this week.
  • In recent years, the Iowa Legislature has taken decisive action to support patients and prevention efforts, including passing laws to expand biomarker testing, provide new protections for firefighters facing high occupational cancer risks, and enact the Gail Orcutt School Radon Safety Act to require testing in schools.

The players

Christian Hermanson

State Representative (R-Mason City) representing District 59 in the Iowa Legislature, who provided the legislative update on efforts to address Iowa's cancer challenges.

University of Iowa College of Public Health

Researchers from the University of Iowa College of Public Health who testified on the findings of the 2026 Cancer in Iowa report.

Ashley Hinson

Congresswoman who filed her nomination petition for the U.S. Senate with Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate, and was joined by State Representative Christian Hermanson at the Iowa capitol.

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What they’re saying

“Having lost several close family members to cancer, this issue is deeply personal to me. My focus remains on the health and well-being of families across our great state, and I am committed to following the science to implement common-sense policies that prioritize prevention, early detection, and effective treatment.”

— Christian Hermanson, State Representative

What’s next

The House is working on several new initiatives for the 2026 session, including reforms to insurance 'prior authorization' rules, requiring radon mitigation in new housing, and improving data on water quality in rural areas. The ongoing research is critical for developing a long-term strategy that addresses the specific needs of Iowans.

The takeaway

Iowa's proactive approach to addressing its high cancer rates through research and legislation demonstrates a commitment to improving the health and well-being of its residents. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and effective treatment, the state is working to address this significant public health challenge and ensure that families across Iowa have the support and resources they need.