28467, Calabash, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 28467 has some form of health insurance. 57.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.44 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28467 would have to travel an average of 19.24 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,139 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina.

## The Calabash Compass: Navigating Community Health in 28467

The salt-laced air, thick with the scent of frying seafood and the promise of a good time, is the first thing that hits you in Calabash, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28467). It’s a place where the pace slows, where the sun dips gloriously into the Atlantic, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. But beyond the postcard-perfect sunsets and the legendary Calabash-style cooking, lies a community grappling with the realities of community health, a reality that, like the tides, ebbs and flows, shaped by demographics, lifestyle, and access to resources. This is the Calabash Compass, a look at the health of this vibrant coastal community.

Let's be clear: this isn't a generic "health report." This is a deep dive, a sensory exploration of what it *feels* like to live and breathe in 28467, and how that experience contributes to, or detracts from, the overall well-being of its residents.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Breathing Room**

Calabash, a town of roughly 2,000 souls, swells with seasonal visitors, transforming its sleepy charm into a bustling hub. The permanent population is a tapestry woven with threads of long-time residents, retirees seeking the coastal dream, and young families drawn to the promise of a slower pace. The median age skews older, reflecting the allure of retirement, but the influx of families adds a dynamic layer, bringing with them the energy of children and the demands of childcare.

Understanding the demographics is the first step in understanding the community's health. The age distribution, for example, is crucial. An older population often faces a higher prevalence of chronic conditions like heart disease and, crucially for our focus, asthma. The presence of younger families, while adding vitality, also brings the potential for childhood asthma triggers, from mold in older homes to exposure to allergens.

The racial makeup of Calabash, while predominantly white, includes a growing Hispanic population, bringing with it a rich cultural diversity. This diversity, however, can also highlight disparities in access to healthcare and health information. Language barriers, cultural differences in health beliefs, and socioeconomic factors can all play a role in how different groups experience health challenges.

**Where We Breathe: Places to Live and Their Impact**

The physical environment of Calabash is intrinsically linked to its community health. The type of housing, the proximity to green spaces, and the quality of the air all contribute to the respiratory health of its residents.

Picture this: a sprawling ranch home, nestled amongst towering pines, a few blocks from the Intracoastal Waterway. This is the dream for many, but the reality can be complex. Older homes, while charming, can harbor mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers. Proximity to the water, while offering beautiful views and recreational opportunities, can also increase humidity and mold growth.

Consider the mobile home parks, often housing lower-income families. These communities can face challenges related to housing quality, access to healthcare, and exposure to environmental hazards. These factors can disproportionately impact the health of residents, particularly children.

Then there are the newer developments, offering modern amenities and potentially better air quality. But these often come with higher price tags, potentially limiting access for some residents. The balance is delicate, a constant negotiation between affordability, quality, and the impact on overall health.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Social Determinants**

Beyond the physical structures, the "neighborhood vibe" plays a significant role in community health. This encompasses the social connections, the sense of belonging, and the access to resources that shape residents' lives.

Imagine a Saturday morning at the Calabash Community Park. Children are laughing on the swings, families are picnicking under the shade of ancient oak trees, and the air is filled with the sounds of friendly chatter. This is the essence of community, a place where people connect, support each other, and build a sense of belonging. Strong social connections can buffer against stress, improve mental health, and even promote healthy behaviors.

But what about those who feel isolated? The elderly resident living alone, the single parent struggling to make ends meet, the newcomer feeling lost in a new environment? Social isolation can exacerbate health problems and increase vulnerability.

The availability of community resources is crucial. Are there accessible healthcare providers? Are there food banks to help families struggling with food insecurity? Are there support groups for those living with chronic conditions like asthma? The answers to these questions paint a picture of the community's ability to support its most vulnerable members.

**The Outdoor Playground: Recreation and Respiratory Health**

Calabash, with its proximity to the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. This is a major asset for community health, promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and providing a connection to nature.

Picture yourself kayaking through the calm waters of the Intracoastal, the sun warm on your skin, the gentle lapping of the water against your hull. Or perhaps you're strolling along the beach, the salty air filling your lungs, the rhythmic crash of the waves a soothing soundtrack to your day.

But the outdoor environment can also present challenges. Allergens like pollen and mold can trigger asthma symptoms. Air quality, particularly during peak tourist season, can be affected by traffic and other pollutants. The key is to balance the benefits of outdoor recreation with awareness of potential risks.

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

Fortunately, Calabash isn't just about beautiful scenery and delicious seafood. The community is actively working to improve the health of its residents.

Local healthcare providers, like the Brunswick County Health Department, offer a range of services, including asthma education and management programs. These programs provide vital information about asthma triggers, medication management, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Community organizations, like the Calabash Senior Center, offer exercise classes, social activities, and access to health screenings. These programs help to promote physical activity, reduce social isolation, and provide a sense of community for older adults.

The town itself is also investing in its infrastructure, building walking trails, improving parks, and promoting healthy eating options. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to creating a healthier environment for all residents.

**The Calabash Compass: Navigating the Future**

The journey towards optimal community health in Calabash is ongoing. It requires a collaborative effort from residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

It's about recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities of this coastal community. It's about understanding the demographics, the housing conditions, the social connections, and the environmental factors that shape the health of its residents.

It's about fostering a sense of community, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring access to the resources that everyone needs to thrive.

The Calabash Compass points the way. It's a guide to navigating the complexities of community health in 28467, a reminder that the health of a community is not just about the absence of disease, but about the presence of well-being, connection, and the simple joy of breathing in the fresh, salty air. It's a call to action, a challenge to build a healthier, more vibrant Calabash for generations to come. The future of Calabash, like the tide, is constantly in motion, shaped by the choices we make today. And in the heart of that motion, lies the breath of life, the breath of health, the breath of Calabash.