28349, Kenansville, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.94 percent of the residents in 28349 has some form of health insurance. 44.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28349 would have to travel an average of 2.08 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Duplin Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,138 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easy in 28349 - A Kenansville Community Health Pulse

The air in Kenansville, North Carolina, hangs heavy sometimes, not just with the humid embrace of the coastal plain, but with the silent weight of respiratory challenges. Asthma, that inflammatory dance in the lungs, can be a formidable opponent, particularly in communities like this one, where a confluence of factors – from environmental exposures to socioeconomic realities – can tip the scales. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the breath we take, the quality of life we experience, and the collective health of a community. Let's delve into the heart of 28349, exploring its unique landscape, the people who call it home, and the pathways towards a healthier future, one breath at a time.

**The Lay of the Land: A Canvas of Green and Challenges**

Kenansville, nestled in Duplin County, paints a picture of rural charm. The landscape is a tapestry of working farms, sprawling forests, and the slow, meandering currents of the Northeast Cape Fear River. This proximity to nature, however, presents a double-edged sword. While the abundance of green spaces offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and respite, it also contributes to the presence of allergens – pollen from the pine trees, grasses, and seasonal blooms that can trigger asthma attacks.

Driving through the area, you’ll notice the architectural styles are diverse, reflecting the town’s history and the varying economic strata of its residents. Modest, well-maintained homes sit alongside grander farmhouses, remnants of a bygone era. The layout of the town, with its central square and radiating streets, promotes a sense of community, but also highlights the challenges of accessibility.

The demographics of 28349 are crucial to understanding its health landscape. The population is predominantly white, with a significant Black population. The median household income is lower than the state average, and a considerable percentage of residents face economic hardship. This socioeconomic vulnerability is a critical factor in asthma prevalence and management. Limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing can exacerbate respiratory conditions.

Imagine a young mother, Sarah, pushing her child's stroller down a dusty road. The air, thick with the scent of freshly turned soil and the distant hum of farm machinery, is also laden with unseen irritants. Her child, diagnosed with asthma at a young age, is constantly monitored for symptoms. This scenario, played out countless times in Kenansville, underscores the importance of understanding the environmental factors that contribute to respiratory distress.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Resilience and Connection**

The spirit of Kenansville is woven with threads of resilience and community. The town square, with its historic courthouse and local businesses, serves as a central gathering point. The close-knit nature of the community fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, a vital ingredient in navigating health challenges.

The local schools play a pivotal role in the lives of children, and their impact on asthma management cannot be overstated. Schools are often the first line of defense, identifying students with asthma and implementing strategies to minimize triggers. Imagine a school nurse, Ms. Davis, diligently working with parents and teachers to create asthma action plans for each student, ensuring they have access to their medication and understanding their individual triggers. This dedication, replicated across the school system, is a testament to the community's commitment to the well-being of its children.

The church communities also provide a vital network of support. Churches often serve as hubs for health education, offering resources and guidance on managing chronic conditions like asthma. They provide a safe space for sharing experiences and fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the health of their members.

However, the neighborhood vibe isn’t without its complexities. Some areas may lack sidewalks, making it difficult for residents to walk safely for exercise. The availability of healthy food options can be limited in certain parts of town, contributing to a higher prevalence of obesity and other health conditions that can worsen asthma symptoms.

**Places to Live: Assessing the Environmental Landscape**

The type of housing in 28349 can significantly impact asthma prevalence. Older homes, particularly those with poor ventilation, may harbor mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers. Proximity to agricultural operations can expose residents to pesticide drift and other airborne pollutants.

Consider the different housing scenarios:

* **The Historic Home:** A beautifully restored Victorian home, complete with original hardwood floors and intricate woodwork. While charming, the home may have hidden mold issues and limited ventilation, requiring careful attention to air quality.
* **The Mobile Home:** A more affordable housing option, but one that may be prone to moisture problems and inadequate insulation, creating a breeding ground for allergens.
* **The New Construction:** A modern, energy-efficient home with improved air filtration systems. This type of housing can offer a more asthma-friendly environment, but the cost may be prohibitive for some residents.

The availability of affordable, healthy housing is a critical factor in community health. Addressing housing deficiencies and promoting sustainable building practices are essential steps towards reducing asthma triggers and improving the overall well-being of Kenansville residents.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good, Navigating the Challenges**

The natural beauty of Duplin County offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, but these opportunities must be carefully considered in the context of asthma management. Hiking in the nearby Croatan National Forest, fishing in the river, or simply playing in the park can be invigorating, but also pose challenges for individuals with asthma.

Consider a family planning a picnic at the local park. The joy of the outing is tempered by the need to monitor the children for asthma symptoms. The presence of pollen, grass, and other allergens can trigger attacks, requiring quick access to medication and a well-defined asthma action plan.

The availability of safe and accessible outdoor spaces is crucial. Parks with well-maintained trails, playgrounds with allergen-reducing surfaces, and designated areas for physical activity can promote a healthy lifestyle while minimizing asthma triggers.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

Kenansville is not without its champions of community health. Local organizations and healthcare providers are working tirelessly to address the challenges of asthma and promote a healthier lifestyle for all residents.

Imagine a community health worker, Maria, knocking on doors, providing education on asthma management, and connecting families with resources. She conducts home visits, assessing environmental triggers and offering practical advice. This boots-on-the-ground approach is essential in reaching vulnerable populations and empowering them to take control of their health.

Local wellness programs may include:

* **Asthma Education Workshops:** These workshops provide information on asthma triggers, medication management, and emergency preparedness.
* **Free Asthma Screenings:** These screenings help identify individuals with undiagnosed asthma and connect them with appropriate medical care.
* **Support Groups:** These groups offer a safe space for individuals with asthma and their families to share experiences, provide emotional support, and learn from each other.
* **Collaboration with Schools:** Working with schools to implement asthma-friendly policies, such as providing air purifiers in classrooms and training school staff on asthma management.
* **Partnerships with Healthcare Providers:** Strengthening the relationship between community health workers, local clinics, and specialists to ensure coordinated care.

These programs, driven by dedicated individuals and organizations, are essential in building a healthier future for Kenansville.

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

The "Asthma Score" for 28349 is not a single number, but a complex tapestry woven from environmental factors, socioeconomic realities, community resources, and individual experiences. While the natural beauty of the area offers opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, the presence of allergens, socioeconomic challenges, and limited access to healthcare can create significant hurdles for individuals with asthma.

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

* **Address Housing Deficiencies:** Implement programs to improve housing quality, including mold remediation, ventilation upgrades, and access to affordable, healthy housing options.
* **Promote Environmental Stewardship:** Advocate for policies that reduce air pollution, such as stricter regulations on agricultural practices and support for cleaner energy sources.
* **Enhance Access to Healthcare:** Increase the availability of affordable healthcare, including access to asthma specialists, medication, and preventative care.
* **Strengthen Community Support:** Expand local wellness programs, including asthma education, support groups, and community health worker initiatives.
* **Foster Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government to create a coordinated approach to asthma management.
* **Increase Awareness:** Educate the public about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

By addressing these challenges and building on the strengths of the community, Kenansville can create a healthier environment for all its residents, where everyone can breathe easy and live a full and vibrant life. The journey towards a healthier future requires a collective effort, a commitment to compassion, and a shared vision of a community where every breath is a testament to resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit of 28349.