11717, Brentwood, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 11717, Brentwood, New York is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 11717 has some form of health insurance. 34.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.63 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 11717 would have to travel an average of 2.31 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pilgrim Psychiatric Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 25,145 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 11717, Brentwood, New York.

## The Breath of Brentwood: Unpacking the Asthma Score and Building a Healthier 11717

The air in Brentwood, New York, hums with a particular energy. It's a blend of the hurried pace of commuters, the vibrant chatter spilling from taquerias, and the insistent thrum of life pulsing through a community that’s both resilient and dynamic. But for some, that air carries a different weight – a tightness in the chest, a wheezing breath, the constant awareness of asthma. Understanding the community health landscape in Brentwood, particularly the factors influencing asthma prevalence, is crucial to building a healthier 11717 for everyone.

This isn't just about numbers and statistics; it's about the people. It's about Maria, hustling to get her kids to school while managing her own asthma triggers. It's about David, coaching the local soccer team, acutely aware of the impact of air quality on his players. It's about the collective aspiration for a Brentwood where every breath is easy, every child can run free, and every resident can thrive.

**Decoding the Asthma Score: A Window into Community Health**

While there isn’t a single, definitive “Asthma Score” that neatly sums up a community, we can construct a picture by examining various factors that contribute to asthma prevalence and severity. These factors, interwoven and complex, paint a portrait of community health. We'll delve into the demographics, the environment, the available resources, and the very fabric of life in Brentwood to understand how these elements interact.

**The Demographics of Breath: Understanding the Population**

Brentwood, nestled in Suffolk County, is a tapestry woven with diverse threads. The 2020 census data reveals a population of approximately 63,000 residents, with a significant Hispanic/Latino population. This demographic makeup is crucial because research consistently shows that certain ethnic and racial groups experience a disproportionately higher burden of asthma. This isn't due to inherent biological differences, but rather to a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and environmental exposures.

Imagine the bustling streets near the Brentwood Public Library. The scent of fresh-baked bread mingles with the exhaust fumes of passing cars. Children, their laughter echoing through the air, play tag in the park, unaware of the potential irritants swirling around them. This everyday scene highlights the need for a deeper understanding of how environmental factors impact specific populations within Brentwood.

The prevalence of poverty, housing conditions, and access to quality healthcare are all intertwined with asthma prevalence. Families living in overcrowded housing, with limited resources for proper ventilation and pest control, are at a higher risk of exposure to asthma triggers like mold, dust mites, and cockroaches. Limited access to affordable healthcare, including preventative care and asthma management, can exacerbate the condition and lead to more frequent hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

**Places to Live, Places to Breathe: Housing and Environmental Factors**

The housing landscape in Brentwood is a critical piece of the puzzle. The age of housing stock, the presence of lead paint, and the quality of ventilation all play a role in asthma triggers. Older homes, common in many parts of Brentwood, may contain hidden hazards that contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Consider the homes lining 1st Avenue. Some are well-maintained, their lawns meticulously manicured. Others show signs of wear and tear, perhaps with peeling paint or visible signs of mold. The differences in these living environments can significantly impact the respiratory health of the residents.

Furthermore, the proximity to industrial areas, major roadways, and other sources of pollution can contribute to poor air quality. The constant flow of traffic on the Long Island Expressway (LIE), which borders the community, contributes to the release of pollutants. These pollutants can trigger asthma attacks and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.

The presence of green spaces, like the Brentwood State Park, offers a respite from the urban environment. However, the effectiveness of these spaces depends on their accessibility and maintenance. A well-maintained park with clean air can provide a safe haven for outdoor recreation, while a neglected park can become a breeding ground for allergens.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Determinants of Health**

Beyond the physical environment, the social fabric of Brentwood plays a significant role in community health. The concept of "social determinants of health" recognizes that factors like education, employment, access to healthy food, and social support networks profoundly impact overall well-being.

Imagine a single mother working two jobs to make ends meet. She might struggle to find the time and resources to access preventative healthcare for her children, including asthma management. She might live in a food desert, where access to fresh, healthy food is limited, impacting her family's overall health and potentially increasing their vulnerability to asthma triggers.

Conversely, strong community bonds, access to social support networks, and opportunities for economic advancement can buffer against the negative impacts of environmental and socioeconomic stressors. A vibrant community with active neighborhood associations, accessible community centers, and readily available resources can create a healthier environment for all residents.

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

Fortunately, Brentwood is not without its resources and initiatives aimed at improving community health. Local wellness programs, often spearheaded by community organizations, schools, and healthcare providers, play a vital role in addressing asthma and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Consider the local health clinic, offering asthma education classes and free inhalers to those who qualify. Or the community garden, providing access to fresh produce and promoting healthy eating habits. Or the school nurse, diligently monitoring students with asthma and working with parents to create individualized asthma action plans.

These programs, often underfunded and understaffed, are the lifeblood of community health. They provide critical support and resources to residents, empowering them to manage their asthma and live healthier lives.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easy in Brentwood**

Promoting outdoor recreation is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. However, for individuals with asthma, access to safe and healthy outdoor spaces is paramount.

Imagine the Brentwood State Park on a sunny afternoon. Children are playing soccer, families are picnicking, and runners are enjoying the trails. But what about the air quality? Are there measures in place to monitor air pollution levels and alert residents with asthma when conditions are unfavorable?

Investing in green spaces, improving air quality, and promoting asthma-friendly outdoor activities are essential for creating a community where everyone can breathe easy. This includes advocating for stricter regulations on emissions, supporting the development of asthma-friendly playgrounds, and educating residents about the importance of air quality monitoring.

**The Path Forward: A Collective Effort**

Addressing the challenges of asthma in Brentwood requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates collaboration between community members, healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations.

Here are some key areas for action:

* **Advocacy:** Advocate for policies that improve air quality, such as stricter emission standards and investments in public transportation.
* **Education:** Promote asthma awareness and education programs in schools, community centers, and healthcare settings.
* **Access:** Increase access to affordable healthcare, including preventative care, asthma medications, and asthma management education.
* **Housing:** Support initiatives that improve housing conditions, such as lead paint remediation programs and weatherization assistance.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster strong community bonds and support neighborhood initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Environmental Stewardship:** Advocate for the preservation of green spaces and the reduction of environmental pollutants.

**The Future of Breath in 11717**

The future of breath in Brentwood is not predetermined. It is a future we can shape. By understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to asthma prevalence, by investing in community health initiatives, and by working together, we can create a Brentwood where every resident can breathe freely and live a healthy, fulfilling life. It's a future where Maria can confidently send her kids to school, where David can coach his team with peace of mind, and where the air itself carries the promise of a healthier, more vibrant community. The journey begins with understanding, with action, and with the shared aspiration for a Brentwood where every breath is a gift.