While discussions about cancer have historically centered on regions like “Cancer Alley” in the Deep South and areas in Appalachia with high smoking rates, Iowa has emerged in recent headlines for its concerning statistics. The state now holds the second-highest cancer incidence in the nation and is one of only three states experiencing an increasing trend in cancer rates.
Fred de Sam Lazaro, the director of the Under-Told Stories Project at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, has highlighted this issue. The project uniquely integrates international journalism with education. Fred has been with PBS NewsHour since 1985, frequently contributing and occasionally anchoring for the Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.
Sam Lane, a reporter and producer for PBS NewsHour, provides insights into Iowa’s situation.

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