36619, Mobile, Alabama Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 36619, Mobile, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.44 percent of the residents in 36619 has some form of health insurance. 37.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.16 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 36619 would have to travel an average of 6.01 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Providence Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,144 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 36619, Mobile, Alabama.

## The Breath of 36619: A Community's Fight for Air

The humid air of Mobile, Alabama, hangs thick and heavy, a familiar embrace for the residents of ZIP Code 36619. It's a neighborhood etched with the history of the Gulf Coast, a tapestry woven with the threads of resilience, tradition, and a persistent challenge: asthma. This isn't just a medical statistic here; it's a lived reality, a breath held and released, a daily negotiation with the environment. Understanding the asthma score of 36619 isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the community's fight for air, a fight inextricably linked to its community health and the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in Mobile.

Let's step onto the porch of a shotgun house on Davis Avenue. The paint is peeling, a testament to the relentless sun and salt-laced breezes. The scent of jasmine and honeysuckle mingles with the faint, metallic tang of the nearby port. Inside, Mrs. Johnson, a matriarch of the community, sits fanning herself. Her breath, a little ragged, betrays a history of asthma, a condition that has shadowed her life, influencing her daily routines, limiting her ability to enjoy the simple pleasures of her garden. This is the face of asthma in 36619 – not just a medical chart, but a grandmother, a neighbor, a friend.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

36619 is a predominantly African American community, a vibrant mosaic of families, long-time residents, and newcomers drawn to the affordability and close-knit atmosphere. The median household income falls below the national average, a factor that often dictates access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing. This economic reality adds another layer to the asthma challenge. Limited resources can mean compromised housing conditions – mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation – all known triggers for asthma exacerbations.

The population density is relatively high, with homes clustered together, often with shared yards and limited green spaces. This, coupled with the presence of industrial areas and heavy traffic, contributes to air quality concerns. The port, a vital economic engine for Mobile, also introduces pollutants into the air, further impacting respiratory health.

**Places to Live: Where the Air Bites Back**

The housing stock in 36619 is diverse, ranging from well-maintained historic homes to older, sometimes dilapidated structures. The age of the homes is a significant factor. Older buildings are more likely to harbor allergens like mold and dust mites, potent triggers for asthma. The quality of housing maintenance also plays a crucial role. Leaky roofs, cracked walls, and inadequate ventilation can create breeding grounds for these allergens, exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Consider the bustling streets near the I-10 corridor. The constant flow of traffic, the exhaust fumes, and the particulate matter in the air create an invisible cloud, a silent enemy for those with sensitive lungs. Nearby, the industrial areas, with their factories and warehouses, add to the air pollution burden. The proximity of these industrial sites to residential areas raises serious concerns about environmental justice and the disproportionate impact on the health of the community.

Yet, even within these challenges, there are pockets of hope. The presence of community gardens, like the one tucked away on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, offers a small respite. These green spaces provide a breath of fresh air, a place for residents to connect with nature and cultivate healthy food options.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Strength**

The "vibe" of 36619 is one of resilience and community spirit. Front porches are gathering places, where neighbors share stories, watch the children play, and offer a helping hand. Churches are cornerstones of the community, providing not only spiritual guidance but also essential social services and support networks.

The annual community festivals, with their lively music, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere, are a testament to the community's enduring spirit. These events, however, can also expose residents to potential asthma triggers, such as smoke from barbecues and allergens from outdoor activities.

**Outdoor Recreation: A Double-Edged Sword**

Mobile's location on the Gulf Coast offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. The beautiful parks, the nearby beaches, and the waterways beckon residents to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. However, for those with asthma, these outdoor activities can present challenges.

The pollen count, especially during certain seasons, can be high, triggering allergic reactions and asthma exacerbations. The humidity, a constant companion in Mobile, can also worsen asthma symptoms. The proximity to the coast also means exposure to salt spray, which can irritate the airways.

Imagine a child playing in a park, their laughter echoing through the trees. Suddenly, a wheezing sound interrupts the joy. This is the reality for many children in 36619, where asthma is a leading cause of school absenteeism and emergency room visits.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Recognizing the urgent need to address the asthma burden, several local wellness programs are taking root in 36619. These programs are often spearheaded by community health organizations, churches, and local clinics. They offer a range of services, including:

* **Asthma Education:** Workshops and classes that teach residents about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care techniques.
* **Home Environmental Assessments:** Trained professionals visit homes to identify and address potential asthma triggers, such as mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation.
* **Medication Assistance Programs:** Providing access to affordable asthma medications and inhalers.
* **Support Groups:** Creating a safe space for individuals with asthma and their families to share experiences, offer support, and learn coping strategies.
* **Advocacy:** Working with local officials and community leaders to improve air quality, promote healthy housing, and increase access to healthcare.

These programs are not just about treating symptoms; they are about empowering residents to take control of their health. They are about fostering a sense of agency and resilience within the community.

**A Call to Action: Breathing Easier Together**

The asthma score of 36619 is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's struggles and its unwavering spirit. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-faceted approach, one that involves:

* **Improving Air Quality:** Reducing emissions from industrial sources, promoting public transportation, and advocating for stricter air quality regulations.
* **Investing in Healthy Housing:** Providing resources for home repairs, weatherization, and mold remediation.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including asthma specialists and respiratory therapists.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, healthy eating habits, and smoke-free environments.
* **Empowering the Community:** Supporting local wellness programs, fostering community engagement, and amplifying the voices of residents.

The journey towards a healthier 36619 is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires the collaborative efforts of individuals, community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government. It requires a commitment to addressing the root causes of asthma and creating a community where everyone can breathe freely.

Let's return to Mrs. Johnson on her porch. She's still fanning herself, but a small smile plays on her lips. She's seen the changes in her community, the growing awareness, the new programs, the hope that is taking root. She knows the fight for air is far from over, but she also knows that the community of 36619 is strong, resilient, and determined to breathe easier, together. This is the essence of the asthma score – not just a measure of disease, but a testament to the enduring spirit of a community striving for a healthier future, one breath at a time.