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Iowa young adult cancer rates rise, registry says
KCCI • • health
Key Points:
- Iowa ranks No. 2 in the U.S. for cancer diagnoses among young adults aged 20 to 39, with rates steadily increasing since 2007, unlike the national trend where rates have decreased.
- Clara Cirks, a 32-year-old Iowa native diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer, represents the growing number of young adults affected by cancer in the state and has become an advocate sharing her journey on social media.
- While lung cancer is common in Iowa overall, young adults are more frequently diagnosed with melanoma, breast, thyroid, and testicular cancers, with about 60% of cases detected at early stages.
- Despite higher incidence rates, mortality among young adults with cancer in Iowa is lower, though the potential for long-term recurrence remains a significant concern.
- Cirks emphasizes awareness among young adults, urging them to recognize that cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or perceived health.
