39631, Centreville, Mississippi Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 39631, Centreville, Mississippi is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.59 percent of the residents in 39631 has some form of health insurance. 60.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.59 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39631 would have to travel an average of 11.97 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Field Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 177 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39631, Centreville, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easier in Centreville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39631)

The air hangs thick and humid over Centreville, Mississippi. It’s a humidity that clings to the skin, a constant presence in the bayou-kissed landscape. But for some residents of this small town, nestled in the heart of Wilkinson County, the air presents a different kind of challenge. It’s not just the heat; it's the potential for an asthma attack, a tightening in the chest, a struggle for every breath. This is why understanding the community health landscape in Centreville, specifically within the 39631 ZIP code, is critical. This is about more than statistics; it's about the lived experience of breathing, of living, of thriving.

This article aims to assess the "Asthma Score" of Centreville, a metaphorical measure of how well the community supports its residents, particularly those vulnerable to respiratory illnesses. We'll delve into the demographics, the environment, the available resources, and the overall "vibe" of the town, seeking to understand what contributes to, and what mitigates, the challenges of living with asthma.

**A Portrait of Centreville: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Centreville, a town of roughly 1,500 souls, is a place where generations have put down roots. The demographics paint a picture of a close-knit community. The population is predominantly African American, with a significant representation of families who have called this area home for centuries. The median household income is lower than the national average, and a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. This economic reality has a direct impact on health outcomes. Access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing can be severely limited by financial constraints, creating a ripple effect that can exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma.

The landscape itself plays a significant role. Centreville is surrounded by lush greenery, a tapestry of forests, swamps, and the meandering Homochitto River. This natural beauty is a double-edged sword. The abundance of pollen from the diverse plant life, coupled with the high humidity, can trigger asthma attacks. The proximity to the river also means the potential for mold and mildew, common asthma triggers, to thrive in homes.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident, stepping out of her porch each morning. The air is thick with the scent of honeysuckle and damp earth. But for Mrs. Johnson, this isn't just a pleasant morning ritual; it's a careful assessment of the air quality. She checks for the telltale signs – the slight wheeze in her chest, the tightness she feels with each breath. She knows the triggers intimately: the pollen, the humidity, and the dust that settles in her older home.

**Places to Live: The Home as a Haven, or a Hazard?**

The quality of housing in Centreville is a crucial factor in the asthma score. Many homes are older, and while they possess a certain charm, they may also harbor hidden dangers. Leaky roofs, poor ventilation, and the presence of pests like cockroaches and rodents can all contribute to poor indoor air quality, exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Consider the young family living in a rented home on Main Street. The peeling paint, the dampness in the basement, and the occasional glimpse of a scurrying mouse – all contribute to an environment that can trigger asthma attacks in their young child. The struggle to afford repairs, the lack of access to resources for home improvements, and the limited options for affordable, healthy housing create a cycle of vulnerability.

Conversely, imagine a newly renovated home on a quiet side street. The owners have invested in air purifiers, proper insulation, and regular pest control. They understand the importance of a healthy home environment, and their proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of asthma triggers. This contrast highlights the stark realities of housing disparities and their impact on community health.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Support and Social Determinants of Health**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is more than just its aesthetic appeal; it's about the social connections, the sense of community, and the availability of support systems. In Centreville, the close-knit nature of the community can be a powerful force for good. Neighbors often look out for each other, sharing resources and offering assistance. This social capital can be invaluable for those living with asthma, providing emotional support, practical help with errands, and a network of people who understand the challenges they face.

However, the social determinants of health – factors like access to education, employment opportunities, and transportation – can also significantly impact the asthma score. Limited access to quality education can hinder individuals from understanding and managing their asthma effectively. A lack of job opportunities can lead to financial stress, which can exacerbate health problems. And the absence of reliable transportation can make it difficult to access medical appointments and pharmacies.

Picture the local community center, a hub of activity for the town. It hosts after-school programs, senior citizen gatherings, and occasional health workshops. The community center offers a vital space for connection and support, but its effectiveness is limited by its resources. More funding could enable the center to offer comprehensive asthma education programs, connect residents with healthcare providers, and provide access to essential resources.

**Local Wellness Programs: Filling the Gaps**

Centreville is not without its resources. The local clinic, though often stretched thin, provides essential medical care, including asthma management. The availability of a pharmacy within the town is a crucial asset. However, the effectiveness of these resources is often hampered by limited funding, staffing shortages, and the challenges of reaching those most in need.

The success of local wellness programs hinges on their ability to address the specific needs of the community. This includes providing culturally sensitive education, offering asthma action plans tailored to individual needs, and connecting residents with resources for medication assistance and home modifications.

Imagine a mobile health unit visiting the town square. It offers free asthma screenings, educational materials, and consultations with a respiratory therapist. This outreach program, funded by a grant, is a lifeline for many residents. It brings healthcare directly to the community, breaking down barriers to access and empowering individuals to take control of their health.

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

The natural beauty of Centreville offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the fresh air can be incredibly beneficial for physical and mental well-being. However, for those with asthma, outdoor activities can also pose challenges. Pollen counts, air quality, and exposure to allergens can trigger attacks.

Consider the local park, a popular gathering spot for families. While the green space offers a welcome respite from the confines of home, it also presents potential risks for children with asthma. The abundance of grass, the presence of flowering plants, and the potential for exposure to outdoor pollutants can all trigger symptoms.

The key is to find a balance. Providing information about pollen counts, promoting asthma-friendly outdoor activities, and ensuring access to rescue inhalers can help residents enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation while minimizing the risks.

**The Asthma Score: A Call to Action**

Assessing the "Asthma Score" of Centreville, Mississippi (39631) reveals a complex picture. The community faces significant challenges, including economic disparities, environmental factors, and limited access to resources. The older housing stock, the high humidity, and the prevalence of allergens create a difficult environment for those with asthma.

However, the town also possesses strengths. The close-knit community, the presence of local healthcare providers, and the beauty of the natural surroundings offer opportunities for improvement.

To improve the "Asthma Score" of Centreville, a multi-pronged approach is needed:

* **Strengthening Healthcare Access:** Increase funding for the local clinic, expand access to specialists, and provide free or low-cost asthma medications.
* **Improving Housing Quality:** Implement programs to assist homeowners with home repairs and modifications, focusing on improving indoor air quality.
* **Promoting Community Education:** Offer comprehensive asthma education programs, including workshops on asthma management, trigger identification, and healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Supporting Local Wellness Programs:** Invest in community-based initiatives, such as mobile health units, asthma support groups, and outdoor recreation programs that are asthma-friendly.
* **Addressing Social Determinants of Health:** Advocate for policies that address poverty, improve access to education and employment opportunities, and ensure reliable transportation.
* **Fostering Community Partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local government to create a comprehensive approach to asthma management.

The goal is not just to treat asthma symptoms but to create a healthier community, a community where everyone can breathe easier. It's about empowering residents to take control of their health, providing them with the resources they need to thrive, and fostering a sense of hope and resilience.

The air in Centreville may always be thick with humidity, but with a concerted effort, it can also be filled with the promise of a healthier future, a future where the "Asthma Score" rises, and the residents of 39631 can breathe freely and fully.