Research finds HPV related cancers have risen in rural communities, including in Iowa [Video]

DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG)—New research from Des Moines University found HPV-related cancers are on the rise in rural parts of the country, including Iowa.

The study looked at HPV-related cancer rates in about 20 states across the county, including Iowa. HPV- associated cancers include cervical cancer, certain types of throat cancers, and some cancers of the anus and rectum.

These types of cancers are preventable through a vaccine, but the research shows these cancers are on the rise, specifically in rural areas.

Jason Semprini is an assistant professor in the Department of Public Health at Des Moines University. Like many, his family has been impacted by cancer.

”It’s an expensive disease, it hinders quality of life, it adds a caregiver burden. There are many reasons why we want to try to prevent cases of cancer that we can,” Semprini said.

His medical school provided this video seen above. Semprini researched …