Des Moines, Iowa – The Harkin Institute for Public Policy & Citizen Engagement at Drake University will host its 2026 Harkin on Wellness Symposium on March 11th, focusing on the critical issue of cancer prevention, and treatment. The event comes at a time of heightened concern in Iowa, which has reported the nation’s second-highest cancer rate for three consecutive years, according to state health officials. The symposium aims to bring together experts, policymakers, and community members to explore the multifaceted factors influencing cancer care, ranging from environmental exposures to advancements in clinical practice and the role of lifestyle interventions.
Founded in 2013 by former Senator Tom Harkin shortly before his retirement, the Harkin Institute serves as a nonpartisan hub for research, learning, and public engagement on issues central to Senator Harkin’s decades-long career. The institute, located within the Tom and Ruth Harkin Center on the Drake University campus, is dedicated to fostering informed dialogue and collaborative solutions to complex policy challenges. Its focus areas include disability rights, retirement security, wellness, nutrition, and labor and employment – all of which intersect with the challenges presented by cancer.
Iowa’s Cancer Rate and the Demand for Focused Prevention
The urgency of addressing cancer in Iowa is underscored by the state’s consistently high incidence rates. Even as specific data for 2026 is not yet available, the Iowa Department of Public Health has reported that the state has experienced the second-highest cancer rate in the nation for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025. This concerning trend has prompted increased scrutiny of potential contributing factors, including environmental exposures and access to preventative care. The symposium will directly address these concerns, providing a platform for discussion and the dissemination of modern research findings.
Keynote Speakers and Symposium Focus
The 2026 Harkin on Wellness Symposium will feature presentations from leading experts in the field, including Dr. Ricardo Salvador of the HEAL Food Alliance and Dr. Jesse Bell of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Salvador’s work centers on the critical link between food systems and public health, with a particular emphasis on nutrition’s role in cancer prevention. The HEAL Food Alliance, a national coalition of organizations, advocates for food policies that promote health, equity, and sustainability. Dr. Bell, meanwhile, is a specialist in environmental health and will address the impact of nitrate pollution in drinking water on cancer risk. Nitrate contamination, often stemming from agricultural runoff, is a growing concern in many parts of Iowa and the Midwest.
The symposium’s agenda will encompass a broad range of topics related to cancer care and prevention. Panels will feature journalists from the Washington Post and the Guardian, exploring the crucial role of media in raising public awareness about environmental health risks and advocating for effective public health policies. Researchers from the Harkin Institute and the Iowa Environmental Council will also present new findings on the connection between cancer incidence and water quality in the state. This research is expected to provide valuable insights into the specific environmental factors contributing to Iowa’s high cancer rates.
Environmental Factors and Cancer Risk
The link between environmental exposures and cancer is a growing area of scientific investigation. Exposure to pollutants such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and contaminated water can increase the risk of developing various types of cancer. The Iowa Environmental Council has been actively involved in monitoring water quality across the state and advocating for policies to reduce pollution. Their research, to be previewed at the symposium, will likely focus on the prevalence of contaminants in Iowa’s water sources and their potential impact on public health. Understanding these environmental risks is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Prevention
Nutrition plays a vital role in both cancer prevention and treatment. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that aid protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of cancer. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation and increase cancer risk. Dr. Salvador’s presentation will likely delve into the specific dietary recommendations for cancer prevention, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and equitable food systems. The HEAL Food Alliance advocates for policies that support local farmers, promote healthy food access, and reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.
The Harkin Institute’s Broader Mission
The Harkin on Wellness Symposium is just one component of the Harkin Institute’s broader mission to inform citizens, inspire collaboration, and catalyze change on issues of social justice, fairness, and opportunity. The institute’s work is grounded in the belief that effective public policy requires access to high-quality information, open and transparent political processes, and active citizen participation. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and community members, the Harkin Institute aims to foster a more informed and engaged public discourse on critical policy issues.
Looking Ahead: Continued Research and Advocacy
Following the 2026 symposium, the Harkin Institute and the Iowa Environmental Council are expected to continue their collaborative research on cancer and water quality. This research will inform ongoing advocacy efforts to strengthen environmental regulations and protect public health. The institute also plans to host additional events and workshops to educate the public about cancer prevention and treatment. The ultimate goal is to reduce cancer incidence in Iowa and improve the quality of life for all residents.
Registration for the 2026 Harkin on Wellness Symposium is now open. Interested individuals can find more information and register for the event on the Harkin Institute’s website: https://harkininstitute.drake.edu/event/2026-harkin-on-wellness-symposium-the-treatment-and-prevention-of-cancer/. The symposium represents a significant opportunity to engage in a critical conversation about cancer prevention and treatment and to contribute to a healthier future for Iowa and beyond.
The next update from the Harkin Institute regarding this symposium is scheduled for release on February 15, 2026, detailing the finalized agenda and confirmed panelists. We encourage readers to share this article and engage in the discussion about cancer prevention and environmental health in the comments below.