27262, High Point, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 27262, High Point, North Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.19 percent of the residents in 27262 has some form of health insurance. 35.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.06 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27262 would have to travel an average of 0.80 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, High Point Regional Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,988 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27262, High Point, North Carolina.

## The Breath of High Point: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 27262

The air hangs thick and humid in High Point, North Carolina. It's a characteristic embrace of the Piedmont, a blend of sunshine, industry, and the subtle, ever-present hum of life. But for some residents of ZIP Code 27262, that air, that very breath, is a battleground. This is where the Asthma Score, a complex indicator of community health, becomes more than just numbers; it becomes a reflection of lived experience, a testament to resilience, and a call to action.

Let's be clear: we're not talking about a simple "asthma rate." We're talking about a holistic assessment, a tapestry woven from environmental factors, socioeconomic realities, access to healthcare, and the very fabric of the community. The Asthma Score in 27262, like a fingerprint, is unique, shaped by the specific pressures and potentials of this particular corner of High Point.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Landscape of Lung Health**

First, let's orient ourselves. ZIP Code 27262 encompasses a diverse swath of High Point, stretching from the bustling commercial corridors along Eastchester Drive to the quieter, tree-lined streets of the historic neighborhoods. The demographics paint a complex picture. A significant portion of the population is African American, with a considerable Hispanic/Latino presence as well. This racial and ethnic diversity is a source of strength, a vibrant mosaic of cultures and traditions. However, it also highlights potential disparities in health outcomes, as research consistently shows that minority communities often bear a disproportionate burden of asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Consider the families nestled in the older homes off English Road, the scent of barbecue drifting from their porches on a Saturday afternoon. These are often multi-generational households, where the air quality inside and out becomes a shared concern. The presence of older housing stock, potentially with mold, dust mites, and other indoor allergens, can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Then there are the newer developments, the apartments and townhomes that line the edges of the zip code, catering to a younger, more transient population. Here, the pressures are different. The demands of work, the cost of living, and the constant hustle can create stress, a known trigger for asthma. Access to quality healthcare and preventative care might be a constant juggling act.

The geography itself plays a role. 27262 is a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The proximity to manufacturing facilities, while providing jobs, can also contribute to air pollution, particularly particulate matter and ozone, both known asthma triggers. The presence of major roadways, with the constant flow of traffic, further complicates the air quality equation.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Meets the Breath of Life**

The "neighborhood vibe" is an intangible yet crucial factor in understanding the Asthma Score. It's the feeling you get walking down the street, the interactions you have with your neighbors, the sense of belonging, or lack thereof.

Picture this: a group of kids playing basketball at the local park, the rhythmic thud of the ball echoing through the air. But the air itself is heavy, hazy with the remnants of a recent pollen explosion. A child, wheezing, clutches their inhaler. Their parent, watching from the sidelines, knows this routine all too well.

Or imagine a community garden, a vibrant oasis of green in a concrete landscape. Volunteers tend to the plots, cultivating not just vegetables and flowers, but also a sense of connection. This is where the seeds of a healthy lifestyle are sown, where people learn about nutrition, exercise, and the importance of clean air. This is where the community can rally together to advocate for cleaner air and better health.

The presence of parks and green spaces is vital. They offer respite from the urban environment, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and a breath of fresh air. But are these parks accessible to everyone? Are they well-maintained? Are they safe? The answers to these questions directly impact the Asthma Score.

**Places to Live: Housing, Health, and the Home Front**

Where you live profoundly impacts your health. The quality of housing in 27262 varies widely. Some homes are well-maintained, with modern amenities and effective air filtration systems. Others are older, potentially with issues like mold, pests, and poor ventilation, all of which can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.

Consider the impact of lead paint in older homes, a silent threat, especially for young children. Lead exposure can have devastating effects on respiratory health, making children more susceptible to asthma and other lung problems.

The availability of affordable housing is another critical factor. When families struggle to make ends meet, they may be forced to live in substandard housing, sacrificing their health for economic survival. This creates a vicious cycle, where poor health leads to lost workdays, increased medical expenses, and further financial hardship.

The presence of subsidized housing and community development projects can offer a lifeline, providing safe, affordable homes and access to resources. But the demand often outstrips the supply, leaving many families vulnerable.

**Healthy Lifestyle in High Point: A Call to Action**

The good news is that 27262 is not a static entity. It's a dynamic community with a wealth of resources and a deep well of resilience. The Asthma Score, while concerning, is not a death sentence. It's a starting point, a roadmap for positive change.

The key lies in promoting a healthy lifestyle, encompassing a multi-pronged approach:

* **Outdoor Recreation:** High Point has some great parks, but more could be done to promote their use. The city could create more walking and biking trails, organize community events, and ensure that all residents have easy access to green spaces. Think about the possibilities of outdoor yoga classes, family fun runs, and community picnics.

* **Local Wellness Programs:** The city and local organizations are already working to promote health and wellness. The YMCA, community centers, and faith-based organizations often offer programs that focus on exercise, nutrition, and asthma management. Expanding these programs, making them more accessible, and tailoring them to the specific needs of the community is crucial.

* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality, affordable healthcare is paramount. This includes access to primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma educators. Community health clinics and mobile health units can play a vital role in reaching underserved populations.

* **Environmental Awareness:** Educating residents about air quality, indoor allergens, and asthma triggers is essential. Community workshops, informational campaigns, and partnerships with local schools can help raise awareness and empower individuals to take control of their health.

* **Advocacy and Policy:** Local leaders need to advocate for policies that protect air quality, promote affordable housing, and support community health initiatives. This includes working with local businesses to reduce emissions, supporting green building practices, and investing in infrastructure that promotes healthy living.

**Vignette: The Power of Community**

Let's return to the community garden. Imagine a group of residents, armed with shovels and seeds, transforming a neglected lot into a thriving green space. They're not just growing vegetables; they're cultivating hope. They're learning about healthy eating, sharing recipes, and supporting each other. One of the gardeners, a young mother whose child suffers from asthma, notices a significant improvement in her son's symptoms after incorporating fresh, organic produce into their diet. She becomes a vocal advocate for clean air and healthy living, sharing her story with neighbors and local officials.

This is the power of community. This is the spirit of 27262. It's a spirit of resilience, of determination, of a shared commitment to a healthier future.

**The Future of Breath in 27262**

The Asthma Score in 27262 is not just a number; it's a call to action. It's a challenge to the community to come together, to address the root causes of asthma, and to create a healthier, more vibrant place to live. It's a reminder that every breath matters, and that every resident deserves the opportunity to breathe freely.

The future of breath in 27262 is not predetermined. It's being written every day, in the actions of community members, in the policies of local leaders, and in the very air that we breathe. By understanding the complexities of the Asthma Score, by addressing the challenges, and by embracing the opportunities, we can build a High Point where everyone can breathe easy.