14006, Angola, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 14006, Angola, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.86 percent of the residents in 14006 has some form of health insurance. 47.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 14006 would have to travel an average of 17.84 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Brooks-Tlc Hospital System, Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 843 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 14006, Angola, New York.

## Breathe Easy, Angola: Unpacking Community Health in 14006

The wind whips off Lake Erie, a constant companion to Angola, New York, a community etched onto the shoreline, its character shaped by the rhythm of the seasons and the enduring spirit of its people. In the heart of this town, ZIP code 14006 pulses with a unique energy, a blend of small-town charm and the challenges of a community striving to build a healthier future. This isn't just about medical care; it's about the very air we breathe, the spaces we inhabit, and the choices we make that define our collective well-being. This is the Angola Asthma Score, a deep dive into the community health landscape of 14006.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Pulse of the Place**

Angola, a census-designated place in the town of Evans, is a tapestry woven with threads of history and resilience. Roughly 8,000 people call 14006 home, a diverse population with a median age reflecting a community with a strong family focus. You see it in the parks filled with the laughter of children, the familiar faces at the local diner, and the enduring sense of neighborliness that permeates the air.

But like any community, Angola faces its share of hurdles. The median household income hovers below the national average, and while the cost of living is relatively affordable, access to resources and opportunities can be uneven. This economic reality directly impacts health outcomes. Food deserts, limited access to quality healthcare, and the stresses of financial insecurity can all contribute to a higher risk of chronic conditions, including asthma.

The racial makeup of Angola is predominantly white, with a growing presence of Black and Hispanic residents. This diversity brings richness to the community, but it also highlights the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare and inclusive health initiatives. Understanding the specific needs of each demographic group is crucial to building a truly healthy community.

**Breathing Easy: The Asthma Score's Focus**

The "Asthma Score" is more than just a metric; it's a lens through which we examine the factors that contribute to respiratory health in 14006. We're not just looking at asthma prevalence rates (though those are important). We're digging into the environmental factors, social determinants, and community resources that influence the ability of residents to breathe freely and live a full, active life.

**Places to Live: A Look at Housing and the Home Environment**

The homes of Angola are as varied as its residents. From historic Victorian houses that whisper tales of the past to more modern single-family dwellings, the housing stock reflects the town's evolving character. But the quality of housing is a critical factor in asthma prevalence.

Imagine a young family, the scent of freshly baked cookies mingling with the musty odor of a damp basement. Mold, a common trigger for asthma, thrives in damp environments. The presence of pests, like cockroaches and rodents, another common trigger, can be exacerbated by older homes with less-than-perfect sealing.

Consider the impact of lead paint, a silent threat lurking in older homes. Lead exposure, particularly in children, can exacerbate respiratory problems and contribute to a host of other health issues.

The Angola Asthma Score needs to assess the prevalence of these environmental hazards within the housing stock. This requires a collaborative effort:

* **Community outreach:** Educating residents about the dangers of mold, pests, and lead, and providing resources for remediation.
* **Partnerships with local landlords:** Encouraging responsible property management practices and promoting safe housing standards.
* **Advocacy for affordable housing:** Ensuring that all residents have access to safe, healthy, and affordable housing options.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Connections and Mental Well-being**

Beyond the physical environment, the "vibe" of a neighborhood plays a significant role in community health. Social isolation, stress, and lack of access to social support networks can all contribute to poor health outcomes, including exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Picture a quiet street, lined with well-kept houses, but with little interaction between neighbors. The lack of social connection can create a sense of isolation, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with chronic illnesses.

Conversely, imagine a vibrant neighborhood, where neighbors gather for block parties, children play freely in the parks, and a strong sense of community prevails. This sense of belonging can buffer against stress, promote mental well-being, and encourage healthy behaviors.

The Angola Asthma Score needs to consider:

* **Community events:** Assessing the frequency and accessibility of community gatherings, festivals, and celebrations.
* **Social support networks:** Identifying the presence of support groups, volunteer organizations, and faith-based communities.
* **Mental health resources:** Evaluating access to mental health services and promoting mental health awareness.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

Angola's proximity to Lake Erie and its surrounding natural beauty offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Parks, beaches, and trails provide spaces for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

Envision a sunny afternoon at Bennett Beach, the salty air invigorating your lungs. Children build sandcastles, families picnic, and the sound of the waves provides a soothing backdrop.

However, access to these outdoor spaces is not always equitable. Transportation barriers, lack of awareness, and safety concerns can limit participation, particularly for low-income residents.

The Angola Asthma Score needs to address:

* **Accessibility of parks and trails:** Evaluating the condition of parks, the availability of accessible trails, and the presence of public transportation options.
* **Promoting outdoor activities:** Organizing community events that encourage outdoor recreation, such as walking clubs, bike rides, and nature walks.
* **Addressing environmental concerns:** Monitoring air quality and advocating for policies that protect the environment.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Heart of the Community**

The heart of a healthy community beats with the rhythm of its local wellness programs. These initiatives, often spearheaded by community organizations, healthcare providers, and volunteers, provide essential resources and support to residents.

Think of the local YMCA, offering fitness classes, swimming lessons, and health education programs. Picture the community health clinic, providing affordable healthcare services and asthma management education.

The Angola Asthma Score needs to assess:

* **Availability of asthma education programs:** Evaluating the presence of asthma education programs for children, adults, and families.
* **Access to healthcare services:** Assessing the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals.
* **Community partnerships:** Identifying collaborations between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local businesses.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Factors and Air Quality**

The quality of the air we breathe is paramount to respiratory health. Environmental factors, such as pollution from traffic, industrial emissions, and seasonal allergens, can trigger asthma attacks and exacerbate symptoms.

Consider the impact of idling vehicles near schools, the presence of pollen during peak allergy season, and the potential for air pollution from nearby industrial sites.

The Angola Asthma Score needs to:

* **Monitor air quality:** Utilizing data from local and regional air quality monitoring stations.
* **Advocate for environmental policies:** Supporting policies that reduce air pollution and protect the environment.
* **Promote clean energy initiatives:** Encouraging the use of renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier Angola**

The Angola Asthma Score is not just a snapshot of the present; it's a roadmap for the future. It's a call to action for the community to come together and build a healthier Angola, one breath at a time.

This requires a multi-faceted approach:

* **Collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local government.
* **Education:** Empowering residents with knowledge about asthma triggers, management strategies, and healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Advocacy:** Championing policies that promote environmental health, affordable housing, and access to healthcare.
* **Community Engagement:** Creating opportunities for residents to participate in the planning and implementation of health initiatives.

The journey towards a healthier Angola will not be easy. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a shared commitment to the well-being of all residents. But with the wind at our backs and the spirit of community as our guide, we can create a future where everyone in 14006 can breathe easy and thrive. The Angola Asthma Score is a starting point, a catalyst for change, and a testament to the enduring power of community.