28432, Clarendon, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 28432 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28432 would have to travel an average of 11.68 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Columbus Regional Healthcare System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,231 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina.

## Breathing Easy in Clarendon: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 28432

The humid air hangs heavy in Clarendon, North Carolina, a small town cradled by the meandering Waccamaw River. The scent of pine needles mingles with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil, a testament to the agricultural heart that beats within this close-knit community. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic landscape lies a pressing reality: asthma. And in 28432, the zip code that encompasses Clarendon, understanding the asthma burden is crucial to building a healthier future. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives of the people who call this place home, the children playing on front porches, the adults working the fields, the seniors enjoying the quiet of their gardens.

Our "Asthma Score" for Clarendon, while not a formal scientific metric, serves as a lens. It allows us to examine the factors that contribute to asthma prevalence and severity, and to identify opportunities for community health interventions. It's a call to action, a challenge to cultivate a healthier, more breathable environment for everyone.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience**

Clarendon, like many rural communities, is woven with threads of history, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging. The 2020 Census paints a picture of a population just shy of 1,000 residents, a figure that has remained relatively stable over the years. The demographic makeup is predominantly African American, reflecting the historical roots of the area. This is a community where generations have lived and worked the land, where family ties run deep, and where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons.

The median household income is modest, a reality that often impacts access to quality healthcare and preventative measures. This is a critical factor in understanding the asthma score. Limited financial resources can translate into difficulties in affording medications, home modifications to reduce allergens, and access to specialized care. Transportation can also be a barrier, making it challenging to reach medical appointments in nearby towns like Whiteville or even Wilmington, where specialized pulmonary care might be available.

The age distribution is another key element. A significant portion of the population falls into the older age brackets, a demographic more susceptible to chronic respiratory conditions. Simultaneously, there are children in the community, a group particularly vulnerable to asthma triggers. This creates a double challenge, requiring a multi-pronged approach to address the needs of both the young and the elderly.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Thrives**

Clarendon isn't a place of bustling city streets or towering skyscrapers. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, where conversations happen over the fence, and where the local church often serves as the heart of the community. The vibe is one of quiet strength, of shared experiences, and of a deep connection to the land.

Imagine the scene on a Saturday morning: children's laughter echoing from the playground at the Clarendon Community Center, a hub for local events and gatherings. The aroma of barbecue wafts from a nearby cookout, a familiar scent that speaks of celebration and togetherness. The community center itself, a vital resource, is a potential focal point for asthma education and awareness programs. It could host workshops on asthma management, offer free screenings, and provide information on local resources.

Think of the small, well-maintained homes, some with porches adorned with rocking chairs, others with meticulously kept gardens. These homes, while reflecting pride of ownership, may also harbor hidden asthma triggers. Dust mites, mold, and pet dander can thrive in older homes, exacerbating respiratory symptoms. This highlights the need for home assessments and resources to help residents identify and mitigate these hazards.

**Places to Live: A Spectrum of Housing**

Housing in Clarendon varies, reflecting the community's history and economic realities. There are older homes, some with deep roots in the community, and newer, more modern dwellings. There are also rental properties, which may present unique challenges in terms of maintenance and allergen control.

Consider the older homes, with their potential for mold and mildew, especially in the humid climate. These homes may require regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure a healthy indoor environment. The availability of resources for home repairs and weatherization is crucial in mitigating asthma triggers.

The newer homes, while potentially built with better insulation and ventilation, might still be susceptible to indoor air quality issues. The use of certain building materials and cleaning products can contribute to indoor air pollution. Education about healthy home practices is essential for all residents.

The presence of rental properties adds another layer of complexity. Landlords may not always prioritize asthma-friendly practices, and tenants may have limited control over their living environment. Collaboration between community organizations, landlords, and tenants is essential to ensure that all residents have access to safe and healthy housing.

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

Clarendon's natural beauty offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The Waccamaw River provides a stunning backdrop for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The surrounding forests offer trails for hiking and exploring.

However, the very environment that provides these benefits can also present challenges for individuals with asthma. Pollen from trees and grasses can trigger allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups. Air pollution, particularly from seasonal wildfires or agricultural practices, can further exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Imagine a child playing outside, enjoying the fresh air, only to be overcome by a sudden asthma attack. This highlights the need for increased awareness of environmental triggers and for access to information about air quality alerts. Promoting asthma-friendly outdoor activities, such as walking on paved trails or visiting parks with low-allergen landscaping, can help residents enjoy the outdoors safely.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While resources may be limited, the spirit of Clarendon is one of resourcefulness and community collaboration. Existing local wellness programs, though perhaps not specifically focused on asthma, can serve as platforms for education and outreach.

The local churches, for instance, could host health fairs and workshops on asthma management. The Clarendon Community Center could partner with healthcare providers to offer free asthma screenings and educational sessions. Local schools could incorporate asthma awareness into their health curricula.

The development of a community health coalition, bringing together healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents, is a crucial step. This coalition could identify local asthma triggers, develop targeted interventions, and advocate for policies that promote a healthier environment.

**Building a Breathable Future**

The "Asthma Score" for Clarendon, 28432, is not a static number. It's a call to action, a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility. Addressing the asthma burden requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing:

* **Education and Awareness:** Empowering residents with knowledge about asthma triggers, management techniques, and available resources.
* **Home Assessments and Remediation:** Providing resources for home inspections, mold removal, and allergen control.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including asthma medications and specialized care.
* **Environmental Improvements:** Addressing air quality concerns, promoting asthma-friendly landscaping, and advocating for policies that protect the environment.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and residents.

Imagine a future where children in Clarendon can breathe easy, where seniors can enjoy the tranquility of their gardens without fear of respiratory distress, and where the community thrives on a foundation of health and well-being. This is the promise of a healthier Clarendon, a promise that begins with understanding the asthma score and working together to build a breathable future. The task is not easy, but the spirit of Clarendon, its resilience, its deep connection to its people and its land, offers a powerful foundation for success. It's time to take a deep breath, and get to work.