19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 1 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.60 percent of the residents in 19140 has some form of health insurance. 66.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.48 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 19140 would have to travel an average of 0.46 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Temple University Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,896 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of 19140: A Deep Dive into Asthma, Community Health, and the Vibe of South Philly

The air hangs thick, a humid blanket over the brick rowhouses of 19140. It's a Tuesday afternoon, and the scent of simmering gravy from a nearby Italian restaurant mingles with the exhaust of a passing SEPTA bus. This is South Philadelphia, a tapestry woven from generations, a place where the aroma of fresh-baked bread can compete with the gritty realities of urban life. And in this vibrant, resilient community, asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, casts a long shadow. This isn't just a medical statistic; it's a lived experience, a daily negotiation with the air we breathe, a challenge that demands a deep understanding of community health and the factors that shape it.

Let's be clear: 19140, encompassing parts of South Philadelphia, isn't a monolith. It's a mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own personality, its own history, and its own set of challenges. From the bustling streets of Passyunk Square to the quieter, tree-lined blocks of Dickinson Square West, the demographic makeup is diverse, a reflection of the city's rich immigrant history and ongoing evolution. Italian-American families, a cornerstone of the community, share the streets with Vietnamese, Mexican, and African-American residents, creating a cultural melting pot that influences everything from the food we eat to the way we approach our health.

**The Asthma Score: A Complex Equation**

Understanding the prevalence of asthma in 19140 requires more than just looking at raw numbers. It's about unpacking the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the disease: environmental exposures, socioeconomic disparities, access to healthcare, and individual behaviors. Think of it as a score, a dynamic measure that reflects the health of the community, constantly fluctuating based on the conditions within it.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data paints a picture of urban realities. Air quality, a critical piece of the asthma puzzle, can be compromised by traffic congestion, industrial emissions, and the presence of allergens like mold and pollen. Imagine a child, playing on a sidewalk, the exhaust from a passing truck filling their lungs. Or a senior citizen, sitting on their porch, struggling to breathe on a high-ozone day. These aren't abstract scenarios; they are the everyday experiences that contribute to the asthma burden in 19140.

Socioeconomic factors also play a crucial role. Poverty, limited access to quality housing, and food insecurity can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Overcrowded living conditions, inadequate ventilation, and exposure to pests like cockroaches and rodents – common triggers for asthma – are often more prevalent in low-income neighborhoods. Consider a family living in a cramped apartment, struggling to afford both rent and the necessary medications for their child's asthma. The stress of financial hardship adds another layer of complexity, impacting their ability to manage the disease effectively.

**The Vibe and the Air: Living in 19140**

The neighborhood vibe of 19140 is a powerful force, shaping the lives of its residents in countless ways. It's a place where community is paramount, where neighbors look out for each other, and where a strong sense of identity prevails. But this vibrant energy also presents challenges when it comes to community health.

The abundance of restaurants, while offering a culinary paradise, can also contribute to air pollution. The smell of delicious food wafting from the kitchens can be a double-edged sword, enticing people to eat at restaurants with poor air quality. The narrow streets, often lined with parked cars, can trap pollutants, making the air even more challenging for those with respiratory conditions.

However, the neighborhood's character also offers opportunities for positive change. The strong sense of community can be leveraged to promote healthy lifestyles and improve access to care. Local organizations are working tirelessly to address the challenges of asthma, offering educational programs, support groups, and access to resources.

**Places to Live: A Patchwork of Possibilities**

Within 19140, the character of the neighborhoods varies significantly. The architecture, the streetscapes, and the amenities all contribute to the overall quality of life.

* **Passyunk Square:** This area is known for its trendy restaurants, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. The tree-lined streets and historic architecture create a charming atmosphere, but the higher cost of living can be a barrier for some families.
* **Dickinson Square West:** This neighborhood offers a more residential feel, with beautiful parks and green spaces. The proximity to the Delaware River waterfront provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, but the air quality can be affected by industrial activity in the area.
* **Bella Vista:** Home to the Italian Market, Bella Vista is a bustling hub of activity, with a rich cultural heritage. The narrow streets and heavy traffic can contribute to air pollution, but the strong sense of community and access to fresh produce are valuable assets.
* **Pennsport:** This area is known for its historic row houses, and proximity to parks. The neighborhood's proximity to the Delaware River offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, but the air quality can be affected by industrial activity in the area.

**The Power of Local Wellness Programs**

Fortunately, the community of 19140 isn't passively accepting the challenges of asthma. A network of local wellness programs is working to address the disease head-on. These programs are crucial in improving the asthma score.

* **Community Health Centers:** These centers provide affordable healthcare services, including asthma screenings, diagnosis, and treatment. They often offer culturally sensitive care, recognizing the diverse needs of the community.
* **School-Based Asthma Programs:** Schools play a vital role in identifying and supporting children with asthma. These programs provide education, medication management, and environmental assessments to create a healthier learning environment.
* **Non-Profit Organizations:** Several non-profit organizations are dedicated to improving the health of the community. They offer asthma education, support groups, and advocacy efforts to raise awareness and promote policy changes.
* **Parks and Recreation Programs:** Parks and recreation programs provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting physical activity and reducing stress. These programs can be particularly beneficial for children with asthma, as they encourage them to be active in a safe and supportive environment.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easy in South Philly**

Despite the challenges of urban air quality, 19140 offers pockets of green space and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

* **Dickinson Square Park:** This beautiful park provides a respite from the urban hustle, with walking paths, playgrounds, and green spaces. It's a valuable asset for residents seeking fresh air and opportunities for physical activity.
* **Masonic Temple:** The Temple offers tours and events.
* **The Delaware River Waterfront:** The waterfront offers walking and biking trails, providing access to fresh air and scenic views.

**The Road Ahead: A Call to Action**

Improving the asthma score in 19140 requires a multifaceted approach, a collaborative effort that involves individuals, community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

* **Individual Actions:** Individuals can take steps to manage their asthma, such as avoiding triggers, taking medications as prescribed, and seeking regular medical care.
* **Community Engagement:** Community organizations can continue to provide education, support, and advocacy efforts to raise awareness and promote policy changes.
* **Healthcare Collaboration:** Healthcare providers can work together to improve access to care, provide culturally sensitive services, and implement evidence-based asthma management strategies.
* **Policy Advocacy:** Policymakers can enact policies to improve air quality, increase access to affordable housing, and support community health initiatives.

The journey to improve the asthma score in 19140 is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a deep understanding of the community's needs. But the potential rewards are immeasurable: healthier children, stronger families, and a more vibrant, resilient community.

As the sun sets over the brick rowhouses of 19140, casting long shadows over the streets, the air still hums with the energy of the city. The scent of dinner drifts from open windows, and the sounds of laughter and conversation fill the air. This is a community that cares, a community that fights, a community that breathes. And together, they are working to ensure that the breath of 19140 is one of health, resilience, and hope.