Cancer Incidence in Iowa

Cancer is not just one disease, but many different diseases. There are more than 100 different types of cancer that form in different parts of the body. Cancer is one of the most common chronic diseases and a leading cause of death in United States.

Major risk factors for cancer include tobacco use, obesity, physical inactivity, diet, and sun exposure. Genetic factors also seem to play a role in some types of cancer.

Some types of cancer have environmental risk factors such as exposure to ionizing radiation or chemical exposures that have been found to be associated with a higher risk of cancer. The data and information found here is focused on cancers with an observed relationship with the presence of certain environmental pollutants.

For more information on other types of cancer, and information on cancer risks and prevention check out the links listed below under Other Resources.