39437, Ellisville, Mississippi Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 39437, Ellisville, Mississippi is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.73 percent of the residents in 39437 has some form of health insurance. 39.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.59 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39437 would have to travel an average of 7.46 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, South Central Reg Med Ctr. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,310 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39437, Ellisville, Mississippi.

## The Ellisville Echo: Breathing Easy in 39437 – A Deep Dive into Asthma & Community Health

The air in Ellisville, Mississippi, hangs thick with the scent of pine and the low hum of a life lived close to the land. Here, in the heart of Jones County, a tapestry of generations weaves itself through the days, from the bustling aisles of the local Piggly Wiggly to the quiet hush of the Tallahala Creek. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic Southern town, a silent struggle plays out: the fight against asthma.

This isn't a story of statistics, though the numbers are important. This is a story of people, of the air they breathe, and the community that shapes their lives. This is the Ellisville Echo, a deep dive into the community health of ZIP Code 39437, with a particular focus on asthma and the interwoven threads of a healthy lifestyle.

**Understanding the Breath: The Asthma Score and Ellisville’s Reality**

Before we delve into the specifics, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: asthma. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can significantly impact quality of life, leading to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It’s a condition often exacerbated by environmental factors, making understanding the local landscape crucial.

While a definitive "Asthma Score" for 39437 doesn't exist in a single, easily digestible format, we can paint a picture by examining various factors. These include:

* **Demographics:** Ellisville is predominantly a working-class community. A significant portion of the population is of European ancestry, with a notable African American population. Income levels are generally lower than the national average. This economic reality often influences access to healthcare, healthy food choices, and quality housing – all factors that can impact asthma prevalence and management.
* **Environmental Factors:** The humid climate of Mississippi, coupled with seasonal pollen from pine trees, ragweed, and other plants, can trigger asthma symptoms. Air quality, while generally good, can be impacted by seasonal wildfires and local industry.
* **Healthcare Access:** The availability of specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is a key consideration. The presence of local clinics and hospitals, along with insurance coverage rates, directly impacts a resident's ability to manage their condition.
* **Housing Conditions:** Older homes, common in Ellisville, can harbor mold, dust mites, and other allergens that trigger asthma. The presence of lead paint, though less common now, can also pose a risk.
* **Lifestyle:** Smoking rates, physical activity levels, and access to healthy food options all play a role. A sedentary lifestyle and a diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to asthma triggers.

**The Vibe of 39437: A Tapestry of Life**

To truly understand the asthma landscape, we need to understand the community itself.

Imagine this: it's a Friday evening. The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and purple. The aroma of barbecue wafts from a backyard cookout on West Magnolia Street. Children chase fireflies in the twilight, their laughter echoing through the quiet streets. This is the heart of Ellisville, where neighbors know each other, and the pace of life is slower, more deliberate.

Drive down Main Street, and you'll see the remnants of a bygone era: the weathered brick facades of buildings that have stood for generations, the lingering scent of freshly brewed coffee from the local diner, and the friendly faces of those who call this town home.

But beneath the surface of this small-town charm, challenges exist. The economic realities can be tough. The availability of specialized healthcare can be limited. And the environmental factors, like the humidity and pollen, are ever-present reminders of the potential for asthma flare-ups.

**Places to Live, Places to Breathe: Navigating the Housing Landscape**

The type of housing in 39437 varies, from historic homes with character to more modern, suburban-style developments. Where you live can significantly impact your asthma.

* **Older Homes:** While charming, older homes can present challenges. They may have higher levels of dust mites, mold, and other allergens. Regular maintenance, including proper ventilation and pest control, is crucial.
* **Newer Developments:** Newer homes often have better insulation and ventilation, potentially reducing allergen exposure. However, the use of certain building materials can also contribute to indoor air quality issues.
* **Apartments and Rental Properties:** Rental properties require diligent attention to maintenance by landlords. Ensuring proper ventilation, pest control, and the prompt repair of any water damage is essential for asthma sufferers.

**A Breath of Fresh Air: Outdoor Recreation and the Ellisville Experience**

Ellisville offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can be both beneficial and challenging for asthma sufferers.

* **Tallahala Creek:** A local treasure, the creek provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area. However, the presence of pollen and other allergens in the air can trigger asthma symptoms.
* **Parks and Green Spaces:** Local parks offer spaces for walking, running, and playing. These areas can be havens for fresh air, but it's important to be mindful of pollen counts and other environmental triggers.
* **The Importance of Timing:** Planning outdoor activities for times when pollen counts are lower, such as after a rain shower, can help minimize asthma symptoms.

**Local Wellness Programs: Weaving a Safety Net**

Ellisville is not just a collection of houses and streets; it's a community, and communities thrive on support. While specific, dedicated "asthma programs" may be limited, the town benefits from several resources that contribute to overall community health and well-being, indirectly supporting asthma management.

* **Local Clinics and Hospitals:** These facilities provide essential healthcare services, including asthma diagnosis and treatment.
* **Community Centers:** These centers often host health education programs and offer resources for healthy living.
* **School Programs:** Schools play a vital role in educating children about asthma and providing support for those who suffer from the condition.
* **Support Groups:** While specific asthma support groups may not be readily available, connecting with local community groups and online resources can provide valuable support and information.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Ellisville: A Path to Breathe Easier**

A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of asthma management. In Ellisville, this means embracing the following:

* **Diet:** Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The local farmer's market, when available, is a great place to source fresh, seasonal produce.
* **Exercise:** Regular physical activity is crucial for lung health. Walking, swimming, and other low-impact exercises are excellent options.
* **Smoking Cessation:** Smoking is a major trigger for asthma. Accessing local smoking cessation programs is vital.
* **Medication Adherence:** Following a doctor's prescribed asthma management plan, including taking medications as directed, is essential.
* **Trigger Avoidance:** Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, is critical.

**The Ellisville Echo: A Call to Action**

The story of asthma in 39437 is not a static one. It’s a dynamic narrative shaped by the people who live here, the environment they inhabit, and the resources available to them.

To improve community health and specifically address asthma, Ellisville could benefit from:

* **Increased Awareness:** Raising awareness about asthma triggers and management strategies through community outreach programs.
* **Improved Healthcare Access:** Expanding access to specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Affordable Housing Initiatives:** Promoting affordable housing options that prioritize healthy indoor air quality.
* **Environmental Improvements:** Addressing environmental factors that contribute to asthma, such as air pollution and mold.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents to create a supportive environment for asthma sufferers.

The Ellisville Echo is a call to action. It’s a reminder that community health is not just about treating illness; it’s about creating a community where everyone can breathe easy. It's about recognizing the challenges and working together to build a healthier future for all residents of 39437. It's about the hope that one day, the air in Ellisville will be filled with the sound of laughter, the scent of blooming flowers, and the ease of every breath.