39743, Crawford, Mississippi Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 39743, Crawford, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.44 percent of the residents in 39743 has some form of health insurance. 56.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.68 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39743 would have to travel an average of 13.67 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Noxubee General Critical Access Hosp. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,787 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39743, Crawford, Mississippi.

## Breath of Fresh Air: Unpacking the Asthma Score in Crawford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39743)

The air hangs thick and humid in Crawford, Mississippi. It’s a familiar embrace for those who call this small town home, a place where the scent of blooming magnolias mixes with the earthy aroma of freshly tilled fields. But for some, this air, this very essence of Crawford, can be a foe. We're diving deep into the community health of Crawford, specifically ZIP code 39743, to understand the impact of asthma and, more importantly, how this tight-knit community is breathing new life into its future.

The Asthma Score, a metaphorical yardstick, isn't a single number. It's a composite, a mosaic of factors that influence respiratory health. It considers everything from the prevalence of asthma diagnoses to access to healthcare, environmental triggers, and the overall lifestyle choices within the community. In Crawford, understanding this score is crucial to building a healthier future, one breath at a time.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Heart of Crawford**

Crawford, nestled in Lowndes County, is a tapestry woven with threads of history, heritage, and a deep connection to the land. The population, hovering around a few hundred residents, is predominantly African American, reflecting the rich cultural legacy of the area. Generations have put down roots here, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the seasons and the shared experiences of a close-knit community.

The landscape itself plays a significant role. Lush, green fields stretch towards the horizon, dotted with family farms that have sustained the community for generations. The Tombigbee River, a lifeblood of the region, snakes its way through the landscape, offering both beauty and potential environmental considerations. The presence of agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can also introduce allergens and particulate matter into the air, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

**Places to Live: Homes and Their Impact**

The homes of Crawford are as diverse as the people who live in them. You'll find well-maintained, historic houses with wraparound porches, remnants of a bygone era, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with more modern, single-family dwellings. Some families live in mobile homes, a common sight in rural communities. The age and condition of housing are critical components of the Asthma Score.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a vibrant woman with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, sitting on her porch swing. The porch, shaded by a sprawling oak, is a sanctuary, a place to greet neighbors and watch the world go by. But the house itself, while lovingly cared for, is older. Cracks in the foundation, unseen by the casual observer, can harbor mold and mildew, insidious triggers for asthma.

Then there’s the Miller family, living in a newer home, meticulously maintained. Their concern might be the presence of dust mites, common in even the cleanest of homes, or the potential for air pollution from nearby agricultural activities. The quality of indoor air, the presence of allergens, and the overall structural integrity of the homes are all factors that contribute to the Asthma Score.

**The Vibe: Community Spirit and Neighborhood Dynamics**

The heart of Crawford beats strong, fueled by a sense of community that’s palpable. This isn't just a collection of houses; it's a network of relationships, a web of support. Neighbors look out for each other, share meals, and celebrate life's milestones together. This tight-knit bond is a powerful asset in addressing community health challenges.

Picture the annual Crawford Community Day. The air crackles with excitement. Children chase each other through the park, their laughter echoing through the trees. Adults gather, sharing stories and catching up. The aroma of barbecue fills the air. This sense of belonging, this feeling of connection, is a vital component of a healthy community. It encourages residents to look out for each other, to share information, and to advocate for their collective well-being.

However, the very closeness of the community can also present challenges. Limited resources and access to information can sometimes hinder efforts to address health concerns. The Asthma Score reflects the community's ability to overcome these obstacles, to work together to create a healthier environment for everyone.

**Breathing Easy: Local Wellness Programs and Healthcare Access**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. The Asthma Score reflects the availability of physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals who can diagnose and treat asthma. In Crawford, like many rural communities, access to specialized care can be a challenge.

Consider the journey of young Michael, a bright-eyed boy who loves to run and play. He's recently been diagnosed with asthma. His parents, dedicated and loving, navigate the healthcare system, seeking the best possible care for their son. They may face challenges: the distance to specialists, the cost of medication, and the need for ongoing education about asthma management.

Fortunately, community initiatives are working to bridge these gaps. Local clinics, even if limited in resources, are often the first line of defense, providing primary care and offering asthma education programs. The Asthma Score is influenced by the effectiveness of these programs, their ability to reach those who need them most, and their impact on improving asthma control within the community.

Perhaps a mobile health unit, bringing medical services directly to the community, makes regular visits. Or maybe a local church organizes workshops on asthma management and healthy living. These initiatives, fueled by the passion of community members, are essential in raising awareness, providing support, and empowering residents to take control of their health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural World**

Crawford’s natural beauty offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Tombigbee River beckons with the promise of fishing and boating. Parks and green spaces offer places to run, play, and simply breathe. However, the Asthma Score also considers the potential for environmental triggers.

Imagine a family enjoying a picnic in the park. The sun is shining, the air feels fresh, and the children are laughing as they chase butterflies. But for someone with asthma, the pollen count, the presence of mold, or the exposure to other allergens can quickly turn a day of fun into a struggle for breath.

The Asthma Score reflects the community's efforts to balance the benefits of outdoor recreation with the need to protect vulnerable individuals. This might involve monitoring air quality, providing information about pollen counts, and creating asthma-friendly outdoor spaces. Perhaps the local park installs a new playground with non-allergenic materials, or a community garden encourages residents to grow their own fruits and vegetables, promoting healthy eating habits.

**The Road Ahead: Building a Healthier Crawford**

The Asthma Score in Crawford, Mississippi (39743) is not a static number. It’s a reflection of the community's ongoing efforts to improve its health and well-being. It highlights the challenges and the opportunities. It underscores the importance of collaboration, of community spirit, and of a shared commitment to a healthier future.

The journey towards a better Asthma Score involves a multi-faceted approach. It means:

* **Strengthening Healthcare Access:** Ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare, including specialized asthma care, and affordable medication.
* **Promoting Asthma Education:** Empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their asthma effectively.
* **Improving Indoor Air Quality:** Addressing housing issues that contribute to asthma triggers, such as mold, mildew, and dust mites.
* **Monitoring and Addressing Environmental Triggers:** Working to reduce air pollution, pollen counts, and other environmental factors that exacerbate asthma symptoms.
* **Fostering Community Engagement:** Building a strong network of support, where neighbors look out for each other and work together to improve the health of their community.
* **Supporting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, healthy eating habits, and overall well-being.

The story of Crawford is one of resilience, of a community that refuses to be defined by its challenges. It's a story of hope, of a town that is working tirelessly to breathe new life into its future. The Asthma Score is a call to action, a reminder that every breath counts, and that together, the people of Crawford can create a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come. The air, once a potential adversary, can become a source of strength, a testament to the enduring spirit of Crawford.