(Atlantic) — Chuck Grassley made a stop at Cass Health on Wednesday afternoon as part of his 46th annual 99-county tour.
Iowa has become a focal point in the ongoing battle against cancer, holding the unfortunate distinction of having the second-highest rate of new cancer cases in the United States. In Cass County, the numbers are even more troubling. The county currently ranks first among Iowa’s 99 counties for overall cancer incidence, with certain cancers appearing at rates higher than both state and national averages.
During a discussion at Cass Health, Chief Nursing Officer Amanda Bireline asked Senator Grassley about bipartisan solutions to improve health outcomes for Iowans — and Americans more broadly — when it comes to cancer and other serious illnesses.
Grassley pointed to decades of federal laws dating back to the 1960s and 1970s that regulate agricultural imports, noting that while agriculture is often part of the conversation, he does not believe it is the sole reason Cass County ranks number one in cancer incidence. He emphasized the importance of relying on sound science to understand the causes better.
Bireline, who grew up on a five-generation family farm, said she sees the issue from multiple perspectives. She acknowledged the complexity of the situation and the need to examine it from all angles.
The senator added that while he is frequently asked about regulations on herbicides and pesticides, he believes the discussion must extend beyond agriculture alone. Addressing cancer rates, he said, requires looking at a broad range of possible factors and solutions.
In response to rising cancer statistics, resources are available to help Iowans better understand and address the issue. The Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project provides informational materials, screening programs, and opportunities for local engagement. The initiative is designed to help residents make informed decisions about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment within their own communities.
