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Shine a light on issues that matter—support local news with your gift today. DECORAH — On June 19, experts from the Iowa Cancer Registry (ICR) presented an overview of local cancer statistics to interested community members. About 25 people attended in person at the Winneshiek County Courthouse Annex, with another 17 joining virtually to learn more about Iowa's cancer trends and what can be done locally to address them. Led by Dr. Mary Charlton and Dr. Whitney Zahnd, the session was part of the statewide "Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project," which aims to provide community-specific cancer data and promote local engagement. The findings presented paint a complex picture: Iowa ranks second nationally for new cancer diagnoses, and the burden of the disease is growing — particularly in rural areas. Winneshiek County: An 'average' risk hides local challenges While Iowa overall faces some of the nation's highest cancer rates, Winneshiek County ranks 76th out of 99 counties for new cases. On average, 136 new cancer diagnoses are made in the county each year, with about 37 cancer-related deaths. "We often say statistics are people with the tears wiped away," said Dr. Charlton, director of the Iowa Cancer Registry and president of the Iowa Cancer Consortium. "Every cancer case matters. Our goal is to use this data to reduce the burden of cancer in communities like yours." Despite its "average" status, certain cancers stand out in Winneshiek County: Prostate cancer: 26 new cases annually; 12th highest in the state Breast cancer: 21 new cases annually; 20th highest Melanoma: 10 new cases per year; ninth out of 80 reporting counties Colorectal and lung cancer: 11 cases each per year; lung cancer rates rank among the lowest in the state at 98th out of 99 counties Understanding the causes and the barriers The team emphasized that no single factor causes cancer. Instead, it results from a mix of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors, including tobacco use, sun exposure, poor diet, lack of physical activity and certain infections like HPV. "There's often concern about environmental exposures in rural areas," said Dr. Zahnd. "While the Cancer Registry doesn't collect environmental data, we do support researchers in studying these possible connections." Dr. Charlton added that the long latency period between exposure and cancer diagnosis — sometimes decades — makes proving direct environmental links incredibly difficult. Still, she emphasized that prevention and early detection remain the strongest tools in fighting cancer. Community-led solutions and statewide frustrations While much of the session focused on data, policy barriers were also discussed. "Iowa is not acting like a state with the second-highest cancer incidence rate," Dr. Charlton said. "Legislation that could help — like mandatory radon testing during home sales or HPV education in schools — continues to be blocked. Until voters get louder, it's hard to move these efforts forward." Attendees were encouraged to engage with elected officials and use the Iowa Cancer Plan as a blueprint for local action. The ICR, Iowa Cancer Consortium and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services all offer technical assistance, training and funding to support community efforts. Steps individuals and communities can take The presentation offered concrete, actionable recommendations, including: Get screened: For breast, colorectal, lung, prostate and skin cancers, early detection saves lives. Promote HPV vaccination: Iowa leads the nation in oropharyngeal cancers, many of which are preventable. Improve lifestyle habits: Quit smoking, use sunscreen, reduce alcohol intake and eat a healthier diet. Implement local policy: Smoke-free zones, radon mitigation programs and school health initiatives can create healthier environments. The Iowa Cancer Consortium also shared information on its free educational materials, grant opportunities and active workgroups on topics ranging from health equity to cancer and the environment. Looking ahead: From awareness to action The 99 Counties Project aims to share statistics and build lasting partnerships that drive local solutions. "Every community is different, so your expertise as community members, leaders and policymakers is key to answering the question of what to do next," said Dr. Charlton. "We're here to help you figure that out and to support you every step of the way." Resources: Iowa Cancer Consortium Iowa Cancer Plan Report cancer concerns: ICR-CancerConcerns@uiowa.edu Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started.

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From Data to Action: Iowa Cancer Registry Presents Key Trends in Winneshiek County