35023, Bessemer, Alabama Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 35023, Bessemer, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.37 percent of the residents in 35023 has some form of health insurance. 35.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.10 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35023 would have to travel an average of 6.38 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,311 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35023, Bessemer, Alabama.

## Breathing Easy in Bessemer: Taking the Pulse of Community Health in 35023

The air hangs thick and heavy in Bessemer, Alabama. Not always in a bad way – sometimes it’s the scent of slow-cooked barbecue wafting from a roadside joint, a promise of smoky ribs and collard greens. Other times, though, it’s a different kind of weight, a tightness in the chest, a reminder of the invisible enemy that affects so many in this community: asthma.

This isn’t just a medical concern; it’s a community health issue, woven into the fabric of life in ZIP code 35023. It’s a story of resilience, of challenges, and of a growing determination to breathe easier, to build a healthier future for everyone.

**The Scorecard: Understanding the Landscape**

Before we can talk about solutions, we need to understand the playing field. 35023 is a diverse zip code, a patchwork of neighborhoods with their own unique character. The demographics paint a picture of a community striving for progress. The majority of residents are African American, with a significant white population and a growing Hispanic presence. Median household income hovers below the state average, reflecting the economic realities that shape daily life.

This economic landscape directly impacts health outcomes. Access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing can be challenging for some families. These factors, coupled with environmental concerns, contribute to the higher-than-average asthma rates observed in the area.

The old steel mills, silent now, stand as silent witnesses to a past that left its mark on the land and the lungs of its workers. The legacy of industrial pollution continues to be a factor, with air quality often fluctuating, especially during certain seasons.

**Neighborhood Vibes: A Tapestry of Life**

Let’s take a drive.

We start in the heart of Bessemer, near the historic downtown. The brick buildings, some beautifully restored, others bearing the scars of time, tell stories of a bustling past. The air hums with the energy of local businesses, from the bustling barber shops to the family-run restaurants serving up Southern comfort food. This is the pulse of the community, where neighbors greet each other by name, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of blooming magnolias.

Further out, we find pockets of quiet residential streets, lined with modest homes, some with well-tended gardens bursting with color. Children play in the yards, their laughter echoing through the warm Alabama air. These are the places where families build their lives, where community bonds are forged, and where the desire for a healthier future burns brightest.

Then there are the areas where the challenges are more visible. Abandoned buildings stand as reminders of economic hardship, and the lack of readily available resources can be felt. This is where the fight for community health is most critical, where access to healthcare and support services can be a lifeline.

**The Asthma Connection: A Deep Breath**

Asthma is not just a medical diagnosis; it’s a lived experience. Imagine a young child, unable to run and play with their friends because of a persistent cough. Picture a teenager struggling to breathe during a school sports practice. Envision an adult whose work is hampered by the constant fear of an asthma attack.

The prevalence of asthma in 35023 is a stark reminder of the environmental and socioeconomic factors that impact health. Poor air quality, exposure to allergens, and limited access to healthcare all contribute to the problem.

But the story doesn’t end there. It's a story of resilience, of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to address the challenges and build a healthier future.

**Places to Live, Places to Thrive: The Importance of Housing**

The quality of housing plays a crucial role in community health. In 35023, the condition of homes can directly impact asthma triggers. Mold, dust mites, and pests can all exacerbate symptoms.

Imagine a family living in a home with leaky pipes and peeling paint. The constant moisture creates a breeding ground for mold, a major trigger for asthma attacks. The family struggles to afford the necessary repairs, trapped in a cycle of poor health and financial strain.

Fortunately, there are initiatives underway to address these issues. Local organizations are working to provide home repairs and weatherization assistance, helping families create healthier living environments. This is not just about fixing a house; it’s about building a foundation for better health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

Despite the challenges, Bessemer offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. The parks and green spaces are vital for community health, providing spaces for exercise, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Picture a group of children laughing and playing in a local park, their faces flushed with exertion. The fresh air fills their lungs, a welcome contrast to the sometimes-polluted air of the city. The park is a place where families can gather, where children can run and play, and where the community can come together.

The challenge lies in ensuring that these spaces are accessible and safe for everyone. Initiatives to improve park infrastructure, increase green spaces, and promote outdoor activities are essential for creating a healthier environment.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Fresh Air**

The good news is that Bessemer is not alone in its fight for better health. A network of dedicated individuals and organizations are working to address the challenges and improve the lives of residents.

Local clinics and hospitals are providing asthma education and management programs. Community health workers are going door-to-door, educating families about asthma triggers and providing resources. Schools are implementing asthma-friendly policies, ensuring that children with asthma can thrive in the classroom.

These are the unsung heroes of community health, the people who are making a difference one family at a time.

**A Vignette: The Story of Maria**

Maria is a single mother raising two children in 35023. Her youngest, Mateo, suffers from asthma. Every time the seasons change, Maria lives in fear of another asthma attack. She struggles to afford the medication and the doctor’s visits.

One day, Maria attends a community health fair. She learns about a local program that provides free asthma education and home assessments. A community health worker visits her home, identifies asthma triggers, and provides her with resources to make her home healthier.

Maria learns how to manage Mateo’s asthma, how to recognize the early signs of an attack, and how to administer his medication. She joins a support group for parents of children with asthma, finding comfort and camaraderie in shared experiences.

Slowly, Maria sees a change. Mateo’s asthma attacks become less frequent. He is able to play outside with his friends. Maria breathes a sigh of relief, knowing that she is not alone in her fight.

**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier Future**

The journey towards a healthier Bessemer is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing the environmental, socioeconomic, and healthcare factors that contribute to asthma and other health challenges.

Here are some key areas for action:

* **Improving Air Quality:** Advocate for policies that reduce air pollution from industrial sources and promote cleaner transportation options.
* **Enhancing Housing Quality:** Support initiatives that provide home repairs, weatherization assistance, and lead abatement programs.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to affordable healthcare, including asthma education and management programs.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Support programs that promote healthy eating, exercise, and outdoor recreation.
* **Empowering the Community:** Support community-led initiatives that address the root causes of poor health and empower residents to take control of their health.

The fight for community health in 35023 is a testament to the resilience and determination of its residents. It’s a story of hope, of progress, and of a shared vision for a healthier future. By working together, we can help everyone in Bessemer breathe easier and live fuller, healthier lives. The air may be heavy, but the spirit of the community is even stronger.