Statewide, Iowa – Republican Adam Steen says if he’s elected governor he’ll push for a lot more state funding of independent research about cancer rates in Iowa and set up a working group within state government to develop a response.
Steen’s father died of cancer nearly four years ago and his mother has recently completed treatment for breast cancer. Steen says the discussion surrounding Iowa’s concerning cancer rate should not be focused on blaming people, like farmers, but on reducing cancer cases in Iowa.
Eddie Andrews, a state legislator, has voted for state funding of cancer research, including research focused on pediatric cancer. Andrews says as governor he’d also focus funding to ensuring more cases of cancer are detected in an early stage.
Williamsburg pastor Brad Sherman says solving the cancer crisis is more than just about funding and if he’s elected governor, he’ll make sure state officials have the skills to evaluate cancer studies.
Sherman also suggests improving the quality of the food Iowans eat is part of the equation.
The candidates made their comments this past Tuesday evening during a debate on Iowa PBS.
KIWA Staff Photo
