Cancer survivors face lingering mental health challenges, Iowa report finds
9 reported
A new report highlights that while more Americans are surviving cancer, many face persistent psychological impacts that often go unaddressed. The story focuses on Morgan Newman, a Des Moines woman diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2015 at age 24, who experienced anxiety, depression, and infertility after treatment. Nationally, there were more than 18 million cancer survivors in 2025, projected to grow to 22 million by 2035, according to the National Cancer Institute. A survey by the advocacy group Cancer Nation found that about a third of survivors reported anxiety about cancer returning and problems with "not feeling like their old self," while only 1 in 5 had seen a mental health professional. Iowa has the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses, according to the Iowa Cancer Registry, and some counties with high cancer rates have few mental health workers. Experts say oncology often neglects mental health, and recommended screenings and referrals are not always done. Some clinics, like the Richard Deming Cancer Center in Des Moines, are offering services such as counseling, music therapy, and mindfulness to address these needs.
What’s reported
Morgan Newman was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2015 at age 24 while working as a dental assistant and studying to become a social worker.
She underwent six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, then additional chemotherapy after suspicious nodules were found in her lungs.
Newman had to quit therapy due to cost and time constraints during treatment, but resumed in 2017 after getting a job with better health benefits.
Radiation treatment damaged her reproductive system, leaving her unable to have children.
As of the article's publication, Newman is cancer free and works as the Iowa grassroots manager for the lobbying arm of the American Cancer Society.
Nationally, there were more than 18 million cancer survivors in 2025, projected to grow to 22 million by 2035, per the National Cancer Institute.
Cancer Nation's survey found about a third of survivors reported anxiety about cancer returning and problems with "not feeling like their old self"; only 1 in 5 had seen a mental health professional.
Iowa has the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses, according to the Iowa Cancer Registry.
The Richard Deming Cancer Center at MercyOne hospital in Des Moines offers counseling, music therapy, and mindfulness to reduce stress for patients and survivors.
Key figures
Morgan Newman, cancer survivor and Iowa grassroots manager for the American Cancer Society
Shelley Fuld Nasso, CEO of Cancer Nation
Julie Larson, Des Moines-based therapist who works with cancer survivors
Patricia Ganz, oncologist and professor at the UCLA School of Public Health
Dr. Richard Deming, medical director of the Richard Deming Cancer Center at MercyOne hospital in Des Moines
Sources: NPR
