For many of us, June marks the welcome arrival of summer — a season filled with family gatherings, time outdoors and the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables from local gardens and farmers markets. It’s also a wonderful reminder of the importance of healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and nutritious eating, which play a key role in reducing cancer risk and supporting overall well-being.

With that in mind, I invite you to join me for the upcoming Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project presentation at Iowa Central Community College’s Student Resource Center from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday. This informative event will provide valuable insights into the cancer-related challenges facing our community and the opportunities we have to make a difference together.

Cancer touches nearly every family in some way. In Webster County, approximately 245 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, with prostate, breast and lung cancers being the most common. While many areas of the country are seeing improvements in cancer rates, Iowa now has the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses in the nation. In fact, 56 of Iowa’s 99 counties — including Webster County — have cancer incidence rates that exceed the national average.

Together, through education, awareness, prevention and early detection, we can work toward a healthier future for our families, friends, and neighbors.

What can you do to prevent prostate cancer? Along with getting screened and eating healthy foods, avoid alcohol, smoking and chemical exposures.

Silvester Davis is 62 years old and was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer that metastasized to lymph nodes and a spot on his rib. His first symptom was persistent pelvic pain, and he shared with us, “Black men are more likely to get prostate cancer, and too many of us don’t go to the doctor until it’s too late. If something doesn’t feel right, you need to get checked out — don’t ignore it. Going to the doctor can save your life — it saved mine.”

If you are a male, between the ages of 55-69, discuss with your provider if a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is right for you. Prostate cancer is easier to treat and has higher survival rates when diagnosed at an early stage.

What can you do to prevent breast cancer? Staying physically active, eating healthy foods and getting screened can help prevent breast cancer. Avoid alcohol, excess body weight and taking hormone medication.

Jen Kirchhoff was diagnosed with triple positive breast cancer at 42 years old. She didn’t have any symptoms and found out about the diagnosis during her first ever screening mammogram. She shared with us, “Dealing with a cancer diagnosis reshaped the way I saw and lived my life. I don’t take anything for granted anymore.”

In addition to monthly self-breast exams, women 40 years and older should get annual mammograms. Mammograms can detect tumors before they can be felt. If you are younger than 40, and have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your provider about additional screenings.

What can you do to prevent lung cancer? Test your home for radon, get screened and quit smoking. Radon is an invisible gas, naturally produced by radium and uranium in the soil.

Mark Crimmins began treatment right away after being diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. After a persistent cough, dizziness and fatigue, Mark underwent CT and PET scans, which led to his diagnosis. He shared with us, “Enjoy life and appreciate each day as it comes, because you never know what the next scan will bring.”

UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge is proud to partner with the Iowa Cancer Registry, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa Cancer Consortium, University of Iowa Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and Iowa Rural Health Association to bring this important community conversation to Webster County.

Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project Event Details

What: Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project — Webster County Presentation

When: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday

Where: Iowa Central Community College Student Resource Center or online

Registration: https://iowacancerconsortium.wildapricot.org/event-6697832

During the Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project presentation, we will explore the ways we can continue working together to improve the health of our communities. Mary Charlton, PhD, director of the Iowa Cancer Registry and professor of epidemiology at the University of Iowa College of Public Health, will share cancer data specific to Webster County — including cancer incidence, mortality rates and key risk factors — along with comparisons to state and national trends.

As an attendee, you have the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion focused on cancer prevention, education and improving outcomes for individuals and families in our community. I hope you will consider joining us.

Leah Glasgo is the president of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge.