A new report from the Iowa Cancer Registry shows that farmers and people working in agriculture have lower rates of several types of cancer compared to the general population.
The findings come from the 2026 Cancer in Iowa report, which includes data from the long running Agricultural Health Study, a national research project that has followed thousands of farmers and their families for decades. Researchers found that overall cancer rates among farmers were lower than those seen in the broader population.
Experts say part of the difference may be linked to lifestyle factors common among farmers, including lower smoking rates and higher levels of physical activity. However, the report notes that farmers can still face unique health risks, particularly from pesticide exposure and other environmental factors associated with agricultural work.
Despite the encouraging findings for farmers, Iowa continues to face challenges related to cancer overall. The state still ranks among the highest in the nation for new cancer diagnoses, prompting ongoing efforts from researchers, health organizations, and state leaders to better understand the causes and identify ways to reduce cancer risk.
Researchers say reports like this help guide future studies and prevention strategies aimed at improving the health of Iowans across both rural and urban communities.