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SIOUX CITY, Iowa (Iowa Media Wire) — The state of Iowa is currently one of the top states in the United States for cancer rates, and the Iowa Environmental Council is looking to change that, holding listening tours across the state.
“Iowans are very concerned about this crisis,” said Director of Climate Initiatives at Iowa Environmental Council (IEC) Cody Smith.
The IEC will conduct listening sessions in 15 communities across the state that are being impacted by cancer and environmental pollution.
Aside from the typical contributing factors like alcohol, smoking, diet, and exercise. A new factor is now in play.
“Iowans are talking about the environment as a key part of this puzzle,” said Smith.
The goal of the listening session in Sioux City is to gather information, which will then be used to conduct an academic literature and research review by a fellow at Drake University.
The review will then be submitted for publication and will become the basis for a report and statewide campaign about environmental cancer risks.
“Clean water, clean air. Things like radon that are already understood. But things that we just haven’t tackled yet,” said Smith.
About 40 people were polled on questions concerning cancer topics involving family and environmental factors, later breaking into small groups.
Attendees included a candidate for state senate (D) Catelin Drey.
“I think we have to get back to the idea that scientists and medical professionals are the experts,” said Drey. “Rather than legislating for intention, we have to start legislating for impact.”
The types of cancer vary across the state. The public report looks to analyze those facts when it comes out in November.