02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 02760 has some form of health insurance. 31.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 02760 would have to travel an average of 12.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Morton Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,508 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easier in North Attleboro (ZIP Code 02760)

The air hangs crisp and clean over North Attleboro, Massachusetts, a town sculpted by rolling hills and laced with the winding threads of the Ten Mile River. But for some residents, the simple act of breathing isn't always so effortless. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can cast a shadow over even the most idyllic settings. This article dives deep into the community health landscape of ZIP Code 02760, exploring the factors that contribute to asthma prevalence, and highlighting the resources and opportunities that are helping North Attleboro residents breathe easier. We'll look at the neighborhood vibe, demographics, places to live, and local wellness programs.

**The Score: A Snapshot of Respiratory Health**

We'll assess North Attleboro's asthma environment using a metaphorical "Asthma Score." This isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a composite of factors influencing respiratory health. We'll consider elements like environmental triggers, access to healthcare, community support, and the prevalence of healthy lifestyle choices. A higher score indicates a more asthma-friendly environment, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement.

**Demographics: Understanding the Community's Breath**

North Attleboro, with its approximately 36,000 residents, is a tapestry woven from diverse threads. The median age hovers around 42, reflecting a community with a strong family orientation. Roughly 94% of the population identifies as white, with smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and Black or African American residents. Understanding these demographics is crucial. Certain groups, like children and the elderly, are often more vulnerable to asthma triggers.

Imagine a young family, the Millers, settling into a charming colonial on a tree-lined street in the Woodcock neighborhood. Their two children, Emily and Ben, are active and love playing outdoors. But Emily has asthma, triggered by pollen and dust. The Millers' experience, common in North Attleboro, underscores the importance of understanding the specific challenges faced by families with asthmatic children.

**Places to Live: Where the Air Breathes**

The housing stock in 02760 is a blend of architectural styles, from historic Victorians in the downtown area to more modern developments on the outskirts. The quality of housing, and the presence of potential asthma triggers within the home, plays a significant role.

Consider the sprawling ranch homes nestled along the shores of Lake Wilson. The air here, often influenced by the lake's microclimate, might hold more moisture, potentially harboring mold and mildew – common asthma triggers. Contrast this with the newer construction developments near the town center, where modern building practices often incorporate air filtration systems, potentially offering a more asthma-friendly environment.

The older homes, while charming, might require more vigilance. Regular maintenance, including mold remediation, pest control, and proper ventilation, is crucial to minimize indoor triggers. The town's building codes and inspection services play a vital role in ensuring safe and healthy living conditions.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of Community Well-being**

North Attleboro exudes a strong sense of community. The town center, with its quaint shops, local restaurants, and the historic town common, is a vibrant hub. This sense of connection is a vital asset in promoting community health.

Picture the annual town picnic on the common. Families gather, sharing laughter and food. But for an asthmatic child, the grassy expanse and the potential for airborne allergens from the picnic itself can be a challenge. The community's awareness of these challenges, and its willingness to accommodate, is key. Perhaps offering designated "allergen-free" zones at such events, or promoting the use of unscented products, could make a significant difference.

The neighborhood vibe extends beyond organized events. It's the friendly wave from a neighbor, the shared concern for a child's well-being, the collective effort to maintain clean parks and green spaces. This social cohesion is a powerful force in promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting those living with asthma.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep, or Holding Your Breath?**

North Attleboro boasts a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. The sprawling World War I Memorial Park offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces. The Ten Mile River provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing. These activities are essential for overall well-being, but they can also present challenges for individuals with asthma.

Imagine a young athlete, eager to join the local soccer team. The brisk autumn air, laden with pollen and mold spores, can trigger an asthma attack. The town's commitment to outdoor recreation must be balanced with a proactive approach to mitigating asthma triggers. This includes:

* **Monitoring air quality:** Utilizing local air quality reports to inform outdoor activities.
* **Providing accessible information:** Making asthma management resources readily available to parents and coaches.
* **Promoting asthma-friendly practices:** Encouraging the use of inhalers and recognizing the signs of an asthma flare-up.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Breath-Friendly Community**

North Attleboro benefits from a network of local wellness programs and healthcare providers that are essential in improving the Asthma Score.

* **The North Attleboro Public Schools:** The school nurses play a crucial role in managing asthma among students. They work closely with parents and physicians to develop individualized asthma action plans, ensuring that students have access to their medications and are educated about their condition.
* **Local Healthcare Providers:** Doctors, pediatricians, and pulmonologists within the community provide specialized care for asthma patients. They offer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management strategies.
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Local organizations might offer asthma education programs, support groups, and resources for managing asthma triggers in the home. These initiatives empower individuals to take control of their health.
* **The Town's Health Department:** The town's Health Department can be a valuable resource for information on asthma prevention and management. They can provide guidance on environmental factors that contribute to asthma, such as mold, dust mites, and allergens.

**The Asthma Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, we can tentatively assign an Asthma Score to North Attleboro (02760). While a precise numerical score is impossible without extensive data collection, we can offer a qualitative assessment:

* **Environmental Factors:** The presence of seasonal allergens (pollen, mold) and potential indoor triggers (mold, dust mites) slightly lowers the score.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of local healthcare providers and the presence of school nurses contribute positively.
* **Community Support:** The strong sense of community and the existence of local wellness programs boost the score.
* **Healthy Lifestyle:** The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, while potentially challenging for some, contributes positively.

**Overall, North Attleboro's Asthma Score is moderately positive.** The community has a strong foundation of resources and a supportive environment. However, there is room for improvement, particularly in addressing environmental triggers and promoting proactive asthma management strategies.

**Breathing Easier: A Path Forward**

To improve the Asthma Score and create a more breath-friendly community, North Attleboro can focus on several key areas:

* **Enhanced Education:** Expanding asthma education programs for residents, healthcare providers, and school staff.
* **Proactive Environmental Management:** Implementing measures to reduce indoor and outdoor asthma triggers, such as promoting mold remediation, providing information on allergen control, and monitoring air quality.
* **Increased Access to Care:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality healthcare, including specialized asthma care.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government to create a unified approach to asthma management.
* **Promoting Healthy Homes:** Encouraging homeowners to take steps to improve indoor air quality, such as using HEPA filters, controlling humidity, and regularly cleaning their homes.

By embracing these strategies, North Attleboro can strengthen its community health infrastructure and create a place where everyone can breathe easier. The journey to a higher Asthma Score is an ongoing process, a testament to the town's commitment to the well-being of its residents. It's about more than just managing a condition; it's about building a community where everyone can thrive.