October 15, 2025

🌽 What could Iowa do to reverse high cancer rates? (w/ State Rep. Austin Baeth) - Cornhole Champions #43

24 minutes

Iowa has the second-highest cancer rate in the nation, and it's getting worse. State Rep. Austin Baeth isn't just a politician. He's a practicing physician who sees cancer patients every day and watches people die from this disease in his palliative care work. His unique perspective as both doctor and lawmaker reveals the harsh reality: Iowa's cancer crisis has identifiable causes and policy solutions, but special interests keep blocking progress.

On this episode of Cornhole Champions, I speak with Baeth about why Iowa's cancer rates are skyrocketing when other states are improving. From radon in 70% of Iowa homes to untaxed vaping products, from water contamination to landlord lobbying, we explore the specific regulatory tools that could save lives—and the political roadblocks preventing action.

Toss some bags at Iowa's cancer emergency... Why $20,000 for radon testing disappeared in two months... And how special interests are hurting Iowans...

Cornhole Champions is a weekly podcast powered by Iowa Starting Line. It’s produced by me and edited by Rebecca Steinberg. Our music is by Avery Mossman and show art by Desirée Tapia. We are a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative.

SHOW RUNDOWN:

00:00 Iowa's Cancer Crisis: Second Highest Rate and Rising

03:30 Why Current State Efforts Are Just Getting Started

05:30 The Real Drivers: It's Not Just Smoking and Obesity

08:00 Radon: The Silent Killer in 70% of Iowa Homes

10:00 Why Landlords Block Life-Saving Radon Protections

13:00 New Home Construction: Simple Solutions Blocked by Builders

15:00 Tobacco Taxes: The Evidence-Based Solution Iowa Won't Use

17:00 Making the Political Case When Lives Are at Stake

19:30 How to Contact Lawmakers About Cancer Policy

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By Zachary Oren Smith

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