Iowa — The new “State of Lung Cancer” report from the American Lung Association ranks Iowa number-39 out of 49 states for new rates of lung cancer. Iowa also ranked worse than the national average on lung cancer survival rates and early diagnosis. Kristina Hamilton, spokeswoman for the state chapter of the American Lung Association, says one recommendation is that policymakers increase the state tax on cigarettes.
Hamilton says cigarette smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer in the state. Another area that needs attention from policymakers is Iowa’s high radon rates, as she says policies could help to reduce radon exposure, and to encourage the building of radon-resistant buildings.
