39563, Moss Point, Mississippi Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 39563, Moss Point, Mississippi is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.56 percent of the residents in 39563 has some form of health insurance. 41.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39563 would have to travel an average of 4.26 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Singing River Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,868 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39563, Moss Point, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easy in Moss Point (ZIP Code 39563)

The salt-laced air of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a whisper of the Gulf itself, carries a promise. A promise of sunshine, seafood, and a slower pace. But for some residents of Moss Point, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39563), that promise is often tempered by a reality: the struggle to breathe easy. This isn't just about the air; it's about community health, a complex tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle, access, and opportunity. Understanding the "Asthma Score" – a metaphorical measure of the ease with which residents can breathe freely – requires a deep dive into the heart of Moss Point.

**The Lay of the Land: A Breath of Fresh Air and the Challenges Within**

Moss Point, a city of roughly 14,000 souls, sits nestled on the east bank of the Pascagoula River. It’s a place where the echoes of shipbuilding history still resonate, where the scent of shrimp boils mingles with the tang of the sea. The demographics paint a picture of diversity. A significant African American population, a growing Hispanic community, and a scattering of other ethnicities create a vibrant cultural mosaic. The median household income, however, tells a different story. It’s lower than the state and national averages, a factor that often casts a long shadow over community health.

Imagine this: the sun, a molten orange, dips towards the horizon, painting the sky in hues of coral and lavender. Children, their laughter echoing across the yards, chase fireflies in the twilight. But for some, this simple joy is fraught with worry. The air, thick with humidity, can trigger a cough, a wheeze, a tightening in the chest. This is the reality for many in Moss Point, where asthma prevalence is a concern.

**Demographics: The Foundation of Community Health**

The demographic makeup of 39563 is crucial to understanding the asthma score. The prevalence of asthma often correlates with socioeconomic factors. Poverty, substandard housing, and limited access to healthcare can all contribute to higher rates.

Think of Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident. Her home, a modest frame house on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, has seen generations grow up within its walls. But the paint is peeling, the windows don't seal tightly, and the air conditioning struggles to keep up with the relentless Gulf Coast heat. Mold, a common enemy in humid climates, thrives unseen, a silent trigger for asthma.

Then there's the issue of access. While Moss Point boasts a few medical clinics, the availability of specialized care, like pulmonologists and allergists, can be limited. Transportation, too, is a hurdle. Getting to appointments, particularly for those without reliable vehicles, can be a logistical nightmare, further exacerbating health disparities.

**Places to Live: Where Home is, and What it Means**

The quality of housing in 39563 is a significant factor in the asthma score. Older homes, common in this area, may contain allergens like dust mites, mold, and cockroaches – all potent asthma triggers.

Picture a young family, renting a small apartment near the industrial area. The air, sometimes tinged with the scent of manufacturing, isn't always the cleanest. Their child, diagnosed with asthma, struggles to breathe, especially during the night. The parents, working multiple jobs to make ends meet, worry constantly about their child's health and the cost of medication.

Contrast this with the homes in the newer developments, further away from industrial zones. These houses, often better insulated and equipped with modern air conditioning systems, offer a different environment. The asthma score, in these areas, might be slightly more favorable, but the disparity highlights the inequities within the community.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Beyond Bricks and Mortar**

The neighborhood vibe, the sense of community, plays a crucial role in overall well-being. In Moss Point, the spirit of resilience is palpable. People look out for each other. Neighbors share meals, offer support, and celebrate together. This social cohesion can act as a buffer against stress, a known trigger for asthma.

Imagine a community garden, a vibrant patch of green where residents cultivate vegetables and herbs. This isn't just about food; it's about connection, education, and a sense of ownership. The simple act of tending to the earth, of sharing the bounty, can foster a sense of belonging, a feeling of being supported, which can indirectly contribute to a better asthma score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Room for the Future**

The presence and effectiveness of local wellness programs are critical. Are there asthma education programs? Are there resources to help families manage their child's condition? Are there initiatives to improve air quality?

Consider the local Boys & Girls Club. They might offer after-school programs that include asthma education, teaching children about their triggers and how to manage their symptoms. Or maybe the local health department partners with schools to provide free asthma screenings. These initiatives, even small ones, can make a big difference.

**Outdoor Recreation: The Joy of Movement and the Challenge of Air Quality**

The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. The beaches, the parks, the waterways – all beckon with the promise of fresh air and exercise. But for those with asthma, this promise can be complicated by air quality concerns.

Imagine a family trying to enjoy a day at the beach. The salty air, usually a welcome relief, can sometimes trigger an asthma attack, especially if the air quality is poor. The presence of pollen, mold spores, and other allergens in the air can further complicate matters.

But there's hope. Initiatives to promote clean air, like advocating for stricter emissions standards from local industries, can help. Creating more green spaces, planting trees, and encouraging outdoor activities can also contribute to a healthier environment.

**The Asthma Score: A Dynamic Equation**

The "Asthma Score" in 39563 is not a static number. It’s a dynamic equation, constantly shifting based on a complex interplay of factors. It's influenced by the economic realities, the quality of housing, the availability of healthcare, the strength of the community, and the environmental conditions.

**The Path Forward: Breathing Easier Together**

Improving the asthma score in Moss Point requires a multi-pronged approach.

* **Addressing Socioeconomic Disparities:** Investing in affordable housing, job training programs, and access to quality education can improve overall health outcomes.
* **Enhancing Healthcare Access:** Expanding access to specialized care, providing affordable medication, and improving transportation options are crucial.
* **Promoting Environmental Health:** Advocating for clean air initiatives, reducing pollution from industrial sources, and creating more green spaces are essential.
* **Empowering the Community:** Supporting local wellness programs, fostering community gardens, and encouraging social cohesion can create a more supportive environment.
* **Raising Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and management techniques is vital.

The journey towards a better asthma score in Moss Point is a shared one. It requires collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. It demands a commitment to addressing the root causes of health disparities and creating a community where everyone can breathe easy.

The sun sets, casting a golden glow over the Pascagoula River. The air, thick with the promise of tomorrow, whispers a challenge. Can Moss Point, with its resilience and its heart, create a future where the children can run and play, free from the fear of a constricted breath? The answer, like the salty breeze, is blowing in the wind. The journey to a better "Asthma Score" is a testament to the spirit of a community determined to breathe easier, together.