27847, Kelford, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 27847, Kelford, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.10 percent of the residents in 27847 has some form of health insurance. 71.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.08 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27847 would have to travel an average of 13.87 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 267 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27847, Kelford, North Carolina.

## The Breath of Kelford: Unpacking Asthma and Community Health in 27847

The humid air hangs thick in Kelford, North Carolina, a quiet town cradled in the embrace of the Roanoke River. The scent of damp earth and blooming honeysuckle mingles with the subtle, almost imperceptible, aroma of woodsmoke – a familiar comfort in a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the land. But for some residents of the 27847 ZIP code, that air, so full of life's scents, can become a suffocating enemy. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, casts a long shadow here, a silent indicator of the complex interplay between environment, lifestyle, and community health.

This isn't just a medical issue; it's a story woven into the fabric of Kelford, a narrative etched onto the faces of its residents, reflected in the architecture of its homes, and whispered on the wind that rustles through the towering pines. To truly understand the asthma score in Kelford, we need to delve beyond the numbers and breathe in the atmosphere, the very essence of this small, resilient community.

**A Tapestry of Demographics: The People of Kelford**

Kelford, like many rural communities, is a tapestry woven with threads of history, heritage, and hard work. The 2020 census paints a picture of a predominantly African American population, with a significant presence of families who have called this land home for generations. The median household income hovers below the state average, reflecting the economic realities of a region often reliant on agriculture and limited employment opportunities.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, her hands weathered from years of tending her garden, a vibrant patch of collard greens and tomatoes that she shares with her neighbors. She’s lived in Kelford her entire life, raised her children here, and now watches her grandchildren play in the yard. She knows the rhythm of the seasons intimately, the subtle shifts in the air that signal the approach of rain, the blossoming of pollen, and, for some, the tightening grip of asthma.

Then there's Mr. Davis, a retired carpenter, his workshop filled with the scent of sawdust and the echoes of hammers. He remembers a time when the air felt cleaner, before the influx of certain industries, before the increased use of pesticides on the surrounding farmland. He worries about the legacy he's leaving for his grandchildren, the air they breathe, the health of their future.

These are the faces of Kelford, the people who shape its identity, and whose health is inextricably linked to the health of the community. Their experiences, their struggles, and their resilience are crucial to understanding the challenges of asthma in this particular environment.

**The Houses We Live In: Shelter and Its Shadows**

Housing conditions play a significant role in asthma prevalence. In Kelford, as in many rural areas, older homes are common, often with issues like mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation – all potential triggers for asthma attacks.

Picture a cozy, two-story house on a quiet street, its porch adorned with rocking chairs and hanging baskets of vibrant petunias. Inside, however, unseen dangers may lurk. Perhaps a leaky roof has allowed moisture to seep in, fostering the growth of mold behind the walls. Or maybe the old windows don't seal properly, allowing dust and pollen to infiltrate the living spaces.

Another home, a single-story ranch, sits proudly on a spacious lot. Inside, the family struggles to afford regular maintenance, leaving the house vulnerable to the elements and potential allergens. The children, especially, are at risk, their developing lungs more susceptible to the triggers that can set off an asthma attack.

The quality of housing, therefore, is not just about aesthetics; it's about the very air that residents breathe, the environment that surrounds them, and the impact on their overall health.

**Breathing Easy: The Role of Outdoor Recreation**

Kelford's natural beauty is undeniable. The Roanoke River meanders through the landscape, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. The surrounding forests provide a haven for hiking, birdwatching, and connecting with nature. But for individuals with asthma, these very sources of enjoyment can sometimes become sources of concern.

Imagine a family taking a weekend trip to the river. The sun warms their skin, the gentle breeze whispers through the trees, and the children laugh as they splash in the water. But for a child with asthma, the pollen from the nearby trees or the humidity in the air could trigger an attack, forcing them to retreat indoors, missing out on the joys of the outdoors.

The availability and accessibility of outdoor recreational spaces are crucial for community health. They offer opportunities for exercise, stress relief, and a connection to nature. However, it's equally important to understand the potential risks associated with outdoor activities, particularly for individuals with asthma.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Determinants of Health**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental factors that profoundly impact health outcomes. In Kelford, the sense of community is strong, with neighbors helping neighbors, sharing resources, and looking out for each other. However, challenges remain.

Consider the availability of healthy food options. Access to fresh produce and nutritious meals can be limited in some areas, contributing to poor diet and exacerbating health conditions. The lack of reliable transportation can further restrict access to healthcare and other essential services.

The level of education, employment opportunities, and access to quality healthcare also play a significant role. These factors can influence an individual's ability to manage their asthma effectively, access necessary medications, and live a healthy lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Fresh Air**

Despite the challenges, Kelford is not without its strengths. The community is resilient, resourceful, and committed to improving the health of its residents. Local wellness programs, though perhaps not as extensive as in larger urban areas, are beginning to take root.

Imagine a small community center, bustling with activity. Volunteers are leading exercise classes, teaching cooking demonstrations focused on healthy recipes, and offering educational workshops on asthma management. Local healthcare providers are partnering with community organizations to provide free screenings and vaccinations.

These programs, often fueled by passion and dedication, are essential for addressing the specific needs of the community. They provide education, resources, and support to individuals with asthma and their families, empowering them to take control of their health.

**The Future of Kelford: A Path Towards Healthier Breathing**

The asthma score in 27847 is not just a statistic; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that community health is a multifaceted issue, requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses the social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to asthma prevalence.

To improve the health of Kelford's residents, we must:

* **Improve Housing Conditions:** Invest in home repair programs, provide resources for mold remediation, and promote energy-efficient housing.
* **Enhance Access to Healthcare:** Increase the availability of asthma specialists, provide free or low-cost asthma medications, and offer culturally sensitive healthcare services.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Support local wellness programs, encourage outdoor recreation, and provide education on asthma management and prevention.
* **Address Environmental Concerns:** Advocate for cleaner air quality, reduce exposure to allergens and pollutants, and promote sustainable practices.
* **Strengthen Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to create a unified approach to community health.

The journey towards healthier breathing in Kelford will require dedication, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the community's unique challenges and strengths. It will require listening to the voices of the residents, empowering them to take control of their health, and creating a community where everyone can breathe easy.

The wind whispers through the trees, carrying the scent of honeysuckle and the promise of a healthier future. The people of Kelford, with their resilience and their unwavering spirit, are ready to meet the challenge. They are ready to breathe easy. They are ready to build a healthier community, one breath at a time.