28462, Supply, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28462, Supply, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.60 percent of the residents in 28462 has some form of health insurance. 45.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.14 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28462 would have to travel an average of 5.46 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,290 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28462, Supply, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easier in Supply, NC (ZIP Code 28462)

The salty tang of the Atlantic, the whisper of pines, the slow, deliberate rhythm of coastal life – these are the sensory hallmarks of Supply, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28462). But for some residents, these very elements, along with the everyday realities of their environment, can be a trigger, a whisper that turns into a wheeze, a reminder of the invisible challenge they face: asthma. This article dives deep into the community health landscape of Supply, examining the factors that contribute to the asthma score, the good, the bad, and the opportunities for breathing easier.

**The Invisible Burden: Understanding Asthma in Supply**

Asthma isn't just a cough; it's a chronic respiratory disease that inflames and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It can be triggered by a multitude of factors, from allergens like pollen and mold to irritants like smoke and dust. In a coastal community like Supply, the prevalence of asthma is influenced by a complex interplay of environmental, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors.

The first step in assessing the "Asthma Score" for 28462 is understanding the demographic makeup. Supply, while experiencing growth, retains a small-town feel. The population is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This aging demographic is crucial, as asthma can worsen with age and the presence of other health conditions. The area also has a growing Hispanic population, a group that can be disproportionately affected by asthma due to potential environmental exposures and access to healthcare disparities.

Poverty levels in Supply are moderate, but pockets of economic vulnerability exist. This can translate into limited access to quality housing, healthcare, and healthy food options – all factors that can exacerbate asthma symptoms. We'll explore these nuances as we delve deeper.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Factors and Their Impact**

The environment plays a pivotal role in the asthma score. The coastal location of Supply brings with it both benefits and challenges. The ocean breeze can provide relief from stagnant air and pollutants, but it also carries allergens like pollen and mold, which are prevalent in the humid climate.

Imagine a typical spring morning in Supply. The sun is painting the sky in hues of coral and gold. You're strolling through the quiet streets, the air thick with the scent of blooming azaleas and the distant rumble of the ocean. But for someone with asthma, this idyllic scene can quickly turn problematic. The pollen count is high, and the dampness encourages mold growth in homes and buildings.

The air quality in Supply is generally good, but there are specific areas of concern. Proximity to agricultural land can expose residents to pesticide drift, and the occasional controlled burn of nearby forests can release smoke and particulate matter into the air. Even the seemingly innocuous act of mowing the lawn can trigger an asthma attack for those sensitive to grass and pollen.

**Where We Live: Housing, Neighborhoods, and Their Influence**

The quality of housing is another critical factor in the asthma score. Older homes, particularly those with poor ventilation and inadequate insulation, can harbor mold, dust mites, and other allergens that trigger asthma.

Picture a quaint, older home nestled beneath a canopy of live oaks. The porch swing creaks gently, and the scent of honeysuckle fills the air. But inside, unseen dangers may lurk. Water leaks, inadequate ventilation, and the presence of pets can create a breeding ground for allergens.

Newer developments in Supply often boast modern amenities and better construction practices, including improved ventilation and materials less prone to mold growth. However, even these homes can pose challenges if not properly maintained. The use of certain cleaning products and air fresheners can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate the airways.

The neighborhood vibe in Supply is generally friendly and welcoming. The sense of community is strong, with residents often looking out for each other. However, the lack of sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes in some areas can limit opportunities for outdoor recreation, particularly for children with asthma who may be hesitant to venture outside.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Supply: Opportunities and Challenges**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is essential for managing asthma. Access to healthcare, healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity are all crucial.

Supply has a limited number of primary care physicians and specialists, which can pose a challenge for residents with asthma. Access to regular checkups, medication refills, and specialist consultations is vital for managing the condition effectively. The nearest hospital is in Brunswick County, which can present transportation barriers for some residents.

Healthy food options are becoming more readily available in Supply. The presence of grocery stores and farmers' markets provides access to fresh produce, which is essential for overall health and can help manage asthma symptoms. However, the cost of healthy food can be a barrier for some families, particularly those with limited incomes.

Outdoor recreation is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. The beautiful coastline and surrounding natural areas offer numerous opportunities for physical activity. However, for individuals with asthma, outdoor activities can be challenging. The presence of allergens like pollen and mold, as well as air pollutants, can trigger asthma symptoms.

Imagine a family taking a walk on the beach. The children are laughing, building sandcastles, and enjoying the fresh air. But for the child with asthma, the salty air and the pollen blowing in from the dunes can be a trigger. The parents need to be prepared with medication and a plan to manage any potential flare-ups.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Easier Together**

The good news is that Supply and the surrounding Brunswick County are actively working to improve community health. Several local wellness programs are in place, and opportunities for improvement exist.

Brunswick County Health Services offers various programs, including asthma education and management services. These programs provide valuable information about asthma triggers, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. They also offer resources for families and individuals affected by asthma.

Local schools play a vital role in promoting asthma awareness and management. School nurses are often the first point of contact for children with asthma, and they work closely with parents and healthcare providers to develop individualized asthma action plans.

Community organizations, such as the local YMCA, offer programs that promote physical activity and healthy eating. These programs can be particularly beneficial for children with asthma, providing opportunities to exercise in a safe and controlled environment.

**The Path Forward: Improving the Asthma Score in 28462**

Improving the asthma score in Supply requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses environmental, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors.

* **Enhancing Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma education programs is crucial. Telehealth services can play a vital role in bridging geographical barriers and providing convenient access to care.
* **Improving Housing Quality:** Promoting affordable housing options with improved ventilation, insulation, and mold-resistant materials is essential. Education programs for homeowners on asthma-friendly home maintenance practices can also be beneficial.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Increasing access to healthy food options, promoting outdoor recreation in a safe and controlled environment, and encouraging physical activity are all vital. Creating more pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with sidewalks and bike lanes can facilitate outdoor activities.
* **Raising Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and available resources is crucial. Community outreach programs, school-based initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations can help raise awareness.
* **Monitoring and Evaluation:** Continuously monitoring air quality, asthma prevalence rates, and the effectiveness of intervention programs is essential. Data-driven decision-making can help guide future efforts and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.

**A Breath of Fresh Air**

Supply, North Carolina, is a community with immense potential. By addressing the challenges related to asthma and embracing opportunities for improvement, residents can create a healthier and more vibrant environment for all. It’s about more than just reducing the asthma score; it’s about ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the beauty and serenity of coastal living, breathing easier, and living healthier lives. The journey to a better asthma score is a community effort, a shared breath, a collective aspiration for a healthier tomorrow.