Nov. 5, 2025
From Iowa’s fields, a closer look at the human cost of cancer
Iowa is beautiful in the late summer. Rolling lush farm fields and expansive skies were my view for several days in September as I drove from one end of the state to the other.
I was in this Midwestern state to meet with farmers, lawmakers and doctors to better learn why Iowa had some of the fastest-growing rates of cancer.
It’s a topic that is top of mind for many in this agricultural center, where a confluence of factors, including water pollution and pesticides, are raising new questions about the health risks associated with industrial farming.
We’ve written about the growing link between pesticides and cancer for years. But this year, as part of the Pulitzer Center’s StoryReach fellowship program, I’m personally diving deeper into this important issue.
Behind the data, policy debates and research, there are real people and their families. Part of this project is also hearing their stories.
I’ve spoken with dozens of cancer victims and their loved ones. Maybe you have a story to tell?
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer that you believe may have been caused by widespread pesticide use? If so, I invite you to complete this brief survey. Your identity won’t be shared without your permission.
This is a chance for you to help inform our coverage of this important project, which will result in a series of stories in a few months.
— Ben Felder, editor-in-chief
ICYMI: Trump’s deportations are causing farm labor issues. He hasn’t presented a viable, long-term solution.
By Sky Chadde, Investigate Midwest
Trump has cast the H-2A program as a quick help for farmers. At the same time, the program has been suspended during the government shutdown, which could cause production problems.
