Free community presentations in Dyersville and Dubuque will explore potential environmental risk factors and opportunities for community action.

DUBUQUE COUNTY, Iowa – Dubuque County residents are invited to take part in Environmental Risk Factors and Iowa’s Cancer Crisis: A Dubuque Conversation on Monday, November 9, 2026. Hosted in partnership with the Iowa Environmental Council, Dubuque County Public Health, Dubuque County Watersheds, and the Iowa Farmers Union, these free presentations will explore the relationship between environmental health and cancer and what it means for communities across Iowa.

Iowa faces a significant cancer challenge. It is one of only three states where cancer rates are increasing and has the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses in the nation. These presentations will bring attention to the issue while creating space for meaningful conversations about potential environmental contributors to cancer.

Topics will include cancer trends specific to Dubuque County and research examining potential environmental contributors to cancer, including pesticides, PFAS, nitrates, and radon. Presenters will share information, answer questions, and encourage community members to consider how environmental health intersects with the health and well-being of our communities.

“Understanding the factors that influence community health is an important part of our work in Public Health. We know that improving health requires looking beyond the healthcare system and considering the environments in which people live, work, and grow,” said Allie, Dubuque

County Public Health Director. “We are bringing these partners together because these issues deserve attention and conversation across our county. We want residents to have access to information, ask questions, share their experiences, and help shape the conversations that influence the health of our communities.”

Two opportunities are available to attend:

DYERSVILLE | 12:30 p.m.

Hoffman Room James Kennedy Public Library 320 1st Ave. E. Dyersville, IA 52040
Register by CLICKING HERE

DUBUQUE | 5:30 p.m.

Jackaline Baldwin Dunlap Technology Center Auditorium University of Dubuque 1200 McCormick St. Dubuque, IA 52001
Register by CLICKING HERE

“We want residents to have access to credible information, ask questions, and better understand how environmental factors may affect the health of our communities,” said Emma Hilkin, Public Health Coordinator for Dubuque County Public Health.

Registration:

Both presentations are free and open to the public, and residents are welcome to attend whichever location is most convenient for them, regardless of where they live in Dubuque County or the surrounding area. Registration is encouraged but not required. Virtual attendance will not be available.

Residents are encouraged to share this opportunity with friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and community organizations. Everyone has a stake in the health of our communities, and all are welcome to participate.

Residents are encouraged to share this opportunity with friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and community organizations. Everyone has a stake in the health of our communities, and all are welcome to participate.