Iowa Has One of the Highest Breast Cancer Mortality Rates in the Nation

Recent research shows that more American women are falling behind on essential breast cancer screenings. This issue is especially critical in Iowa, a state that ranks among the highest in the nation for fatal breast cancer cases.

Leading causes of cancer in women

Breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States, claiming approximately 40,000 lives each year.

While researchers have traditionally analyzed mammography rates by state and demographic factors, the University of Iowa’s Iowa Cancer Registry Research Director, Sarah Nash, explains that this new study is the first to integrate critical social factors into the analysis.

Nash describes the study's approach: “They examined several social determinants of health, and found that the strongest predictors for low mammography use were life dissatisfaction, social isolation, reduced or lost employment, food stamp reliance, unreliable transportation, and cost barriers.”

The study’s findings underscore the need to address these social determinants in addition to improving access to healthcare services. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 65% of women aged 50 to 74 who face three or more health-related social needs are current with their mammograms.

Although the study highlights various social factors, Nash and other researchers emphasize that cost remains the primary barrier.

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“To tackle the issue of cost, we should consider maintaining no co-pay options for preventive care,” Nash suggests. “In Iowa, we have the 'Iowa Care for Yourself' program, which offers low- or no-cost screening for underinsured Iowans.”

The Iowa Care For Yourself Program

If you are between 21 and 64 years of age, you can count on us to help you with free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings. We are here to help you find confidential, caring health care so you can be around to experience even more special memories. Do you want to know more about Care for Yourself?

Do you want to talk to a confidential coordinator now? Call (866) 339-7909 to speak to someone immediately. Care for Yourself coordinators are available to help you Monday-Friday, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The Iowa Care For Yourself Program