health
Why cancer, not cost of living, may be the biggest issue in Iowa’s midterm elections
A broad group of diseases in the agricultural powerhouse is top of mind for the midterm elections
TL;DR
- Iowa has the second-highest cancer rate nationwide, with incidence on the rise, making it a top campaign issue for the midterm elections.
- Candidates are divided on the role of the state's agricultural economy in contributing to these cancer rates.
- Agriculture is a major part of Iowa's economy, but practices like heavy fertilizer and pesticide use, and concentrated animal feeding operations, are linked to environmental pollution.
- Some Iowa waterways are heavily polluted with nitrates, impacting drinking water supplies and raising health concerns.
- While other factors like radon exposure are also present, the link between agriculture and cancer is a focus of discussion, though it has been considered a 'taboo' topic.
- Farmers are initiating changes in agricultural practices, advocating for more sustainable methods to protect both health and the environment.
- The election presents an opportunity to begin addressing the complex issue of cancer rates and their potential connection to the state's industrial agriculture.