Spirit Lake, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — The rate of new cancer diagnosis in Iowa is concerning, and the University of Iowa is leading a consortium to educate each county in the state about the data for that specific county.

An online forum was held Thursday afternoon for the public to participate in the discussion and hear the latest cancer related data related to Dickinson County. Katy Burk with Dickinson County Population and Public Health shares some startling stats.

Dickinson County is in the top third of cancer rates in the state, 28th out of 99.

So what is the cause? That’s the question they are still working on, but they are starting with educating the public with the data.

The “Cancer In Iowa: 99 Counties Project” will continue across the state sharing the county specific information and addressing public concerns. Follow www.iowacancerconsortium.com for further information.