28464, Teachey, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 28464 has some form of health insurance. 59.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28464 would have to travel an average of 13.24 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Duplin Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 356 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina.

## Breathing Easy in Teachey: A Deep Dive into Community Health in 28464

The air hangs thick and humid over Teachey, North Carolina, a characteristic embrace of the Coastal Plain. But for some residents of the 28464 ZIP code, that air, regardless of its humidity, can be a source of anxiety. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can transform a simple breath into a struggle. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community health concern, woven into the fabric of daily life. This article isn't a sterile medical report; it's a glimpse into the heart of Teachey, exploring the factors that contribute to asthma prevalence and, more importantly, the potential for a healthier, more breathable future.

**The Landscape of Breath: Demographics and Environmental Factors**

Teachey, a small town nestled in Duplin County, is a tapestry woven with threads of rural life. The demographics paint a picture of resilience and close-knit communities. According to recent estimates, the population hovers around 400, a figure that ebbs and flows with seasonal agricultural work. The majority of residents identify as African American, followed by a significant white population, reflecting the historical and cultural landscape of the region.

Understanding the demographics is crucial. Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in asthma prevalence. Poverty, limited access to healthcare, and substandard housing can all exacerbate the condition. Imagine a child, living in a home with mold and mildew, a common issue in older structures. The very air they breathe inside their own home can trigger an asthma attack. This is not an isolated scenario; it's a potential reality for some families in Teachey.

The surrounding environment also contributes to the asthma score. Agriculture is the lifeblood of Duplin County, and with it comes the potential for exposure to pesticides and other airborne irritants. During peak farming seasons, the air can carry a distinct scent, a mix of earth and chemicals, that can be a trigger for sensitive individuals. The presence of particulate matter from farming practices, combined with the region's high humidity, creates a potent cocktail for respiratory distress.

**Places to Live: Homes, Neighborhoods, and the Air We Share**

The physical environment of Teachey is diverse, ranging from modest single-family homes to mobile homes and older farmhouses. The condition of housing is a critical element in the community health equation. Homes with poor ventilation, leaky roofs, and inadequate insulation can harbor allergens like dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, all common asthma triggers.

Consider the quiet streets of a residential area, lined with mature trees. While aesthetically pleasing, the presence of pollen from these trees can also contribute to seasonal asthma flare-ups. The air, seemingly clean, can be a hidden enemy for those with sensitive airways.

The neighborhood vibe varies throughout the 28464 ZIP code. Some areas boast a strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, sharing resources and information. In other areas, a sense of isolation might prevail, making it harder for individuals to access support and resources. This social cohesion, or lack thereof, directly impacts community health. A strong community network can help individuals identify and address potential asthma triggers, share information about local resources, and provide emotional support during difficult times.

**Beyond the Walls: Outdoor Recreation and the Breath of Fresh Air**

Despite the potential environmental challenges, Teachey offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being. The surrounding landscape, with its rolling farmland and pockets of woodland, provides a canvas for outdoor activities.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning, the air filled with the scent of fallen leaves. A family, bundled up in jackets, walks along a quiet country road, the children giggling as they kick through piles of leaves. This simple act of being outdoors can be a source of joy and exercise, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

However, access to safe and accessible outdoor spaces is crucial. The availability of parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities can encourage physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, a factor that can contribute to asthma exacerbations. The presence of well-maintained green spaces can also help to improve air quality and reduce exposure to pollutants.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Breathable Futures**

The availability of local wellness programs is a crucial element in improving the asthma score in 28464. These programs can provide education, support, and resources to individuals with asthma and their families.

Imagine a community health worker, visiting a family in their home, providing education on asthma management techniques, such as proper inhaler use and trigger avoidance. This personalized approach can empower individuals to take control of their condition and improve their quality of life.

The local health department and community organizations play a vital role in offering these programs. They can provide asthma education workshops, support groups, and access to asthma medications and devices. They can also work to address environmental factors, such as housing conditions and air quality, that contribute to asthma prevalence.

Consider a community health fair, held in the town square. Local healthcare providers offer free asthma screenings, educational materials, and demonstrations of proper inhaler technique. Children participate in fun activities, learning about healthy habits and the importance of clean air. This type of community engagement can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect individuals with the resources they need.

**The Heart of Teachey: Community, Resilience, and the Fight for Breath**

The asthma score in 28464 is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's health, its challenges, and its resilience. The factors that contribute to asthma prevalence are complex and interconnected, but so are the solutions.

The key lies in a multi-pronged approach:

* **Improving Housing Conditions:** Investing in home repair programs to address mold, mildew, and poor ventilation.
* **Promoting Environmental Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers and advocating for cleaner air practices.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including asthma specialists and medications.
* **Strengthening Community Support:** Fostering a sense of community and providing support groups for individuals with asthma and their families.
* **Investing in Local Wellness Programs:** Supporting and expanding existing programs and creating new initiatives to address asthma and promote overall health.

The fight for breathable futures in Teachey is a collective effort. It requires collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and, most importantly, the residents themselves. It's about creating a community where everyone can breathe easy, where children can run and play without fear, and where the air is a source of life, not a source of struggle.

The journey towards a healthier Teachey is ongoing. It requires commitment, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the community's needs. But with the right strategies and a shared vision, the residents of 28464 can create a future where the air is clean, the community is strong, and everyone can breathe freely. The scent of the Coastal Plain can then be a reminder of a healthy, vibrant community, not a trigger for breathlessness.