29133, Rowesville, South Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 29133, Rowesville, South Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.93 percent of the residents in 29133 has some form of health insurance. 43.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.78 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 29133 would have to travel an average of 10.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Trmc Of Orangeburg & Calhoun. In a 20-mile radius, there are 708 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 29133, Rowesville, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easier in Rowesville (29133)

The air hangs thick and humid in Rowesville, South Carolina. It’s a characteristic of the lowcountry, a blend of the sweet scent of blooming magnolia and the earthy undertones of the Congaree River, a constant reminder of the lifeblood that shapes this community. But for some residents, that air, that very essence of Rowesville, can be a challenge. This is especially true for those living with asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that can make every breath a conscious effort. Understanding the asthma burden within ZIP code 29133, and the community health landscape that influences it, is crucial to building a healthier, more resilient Rowesville. This is our Asthma Score.

**The Landscape of Breath: Demographics and Challenges**

Rowesville, a small town nestled in Orangeburg County, is a tapestry woven with threads of history, tradition, and a quiet determination to thrive. The 2020 census paints a picture of a community where approximately 2,000 individuals call this ZIP code home. The population skews towards a slightly older demographic, with a significant percentage of residents in their 50s and beyond. This aging population can be a factor in asthma prevalence, as respiratory health often declines with age.

Furthermore, the racial makeup of Rowesville is predominantly African American, a demographic that often faces disproportionate health disparities. Asthma rates are known to be higher among African Americans compared to other racial groups, often linked to a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and environmental exposures.

The economic realities of Rowesville add another layer to the community health picture. While specific income data for the ZIP code might fluctuate, Orangeburg County, in general, has a lower median household income compared to the state and national averages. This can translate to challenges in accessing quality healthcare, affording necessary medications and preventative care, and securing safe and healthy housing.

**Places to Call Home: Where We Live and Breathe**

The housing stock in Rowesville reflects its history and character. You'll find charming, well-maintained bungalows with porches perfect for lazy afternoons, alongside more modest homes that have stood the test of time. The availability of affordable housing is a significant factor in the overall health of the community. Substandard housing, with issues like mold, pests, and poor ventilation, can be a major trigger for asthma symptoms.

Imagine a family living in a home with a leaky roof, allowing moisture to seep in and foster the growth of mold. The invisible spores, carried on the air, become a constant irritant, exacerbating asthma symptoms for the children. Or picture a home with outdated heating and cooling systems, circulating dust and allergens that further compromise respiratory health. These are realities that impact the asthma score of Rowesville, highlighting the critical link between housing quality and community well-being.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Place and Connection**

Rowesville exudes a palpable sense of community. It's the kind of place where neighbors know each other, where children play freely in the yards, and where the local church is a central pillar of social life. This strong sense of connection is a powerful asset for community health. Neighbors can look out for each other, share information about health resources, and provide support during times of need.

Picture a group of women gathered on a porch, sharing stories and laughter. One mentions her grandson's persistent cough, and another, recalling a recent asthma awareness event at the local library, offers information about free resources and support groups. This kind of informal network, built on trust and shared experiences, can be instrumental in connecting individuals with the help they need.

However, the very fabric of community can also present challenges. The close-knit nature of Rowesville can sometimes make it difficult to address sensitive issues like poverty, lack of access to healthcare, or environmental concerns that disproportionately affect certain residents. Open and honest conversations are crucial to break down barriers and create a truly inclusive environment where everyone feels supported.

**The Call of the Outdoors: Recreation and the Environment**

Rowesville is blessed with natural beauty. The Congaree River, with its cypress swamps and abundant wildlife, offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. The surrounding forests provide trails for hiking and biking, and the open spaces are perfect for picnics and family gatherings.

Imagine a child with asthma, eager to join their friends for a game of tag in the park. But the pollen count is high, and the exertion triggers a coughing fit. The joy of play is replaced by the fear of an asthma attack. This highlights the importance of balancing the benefits of outdoor recreation with the need for asthma management and environmental awareness.

The air quality in Rowesville, like much of the lowcountry, can be impacted by factors like pollen, humidity, and occasional air pollution. Understanding these environmental triggers is crucial for managing asthma. Initiatives like pollen monitoring and public awareness campaigns can empower residents to take proactive steps to protect their respiratory health.

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

Rowesville is not without its champions of community health. Local churches, community centers, and healthcare providers are working to address the needs of the residents.

Imagine a community health fair held at the local fire station. Free asthma screenings are offered, along with educational materials on asthma management, proper inhaler technique, and environmental control strategies. Local healthcare professionals are on hand to answer questions and provide guidance. This kind of proactive outreach can make a real difference in the lives of individuals with asthma.

The availability of local wellness programs is a critical component of the asthma score. These programs can take many forms, including:

* **Asthma education workshops:** Providing information about asthma triggers, management strategies, and medication adherence.
* **Free or low-cost asthma medications and devices:** Ensuring that individuals have access to the tools they need to manage their condition.
* **Support groups:** Creating a safe space for individuals with asthma and their families to connect, share experiences, and provide mutual support.
* **Environmental control initiatives:** Educating residents about reducing indoor allergens, such as dust mites and mold, and promoting healthy housing practices.
* **Access to healthcare:** Facilitating access to primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other healthcare professionals who can provide specialized asthma care.

**The Score and the Future**

The Asthma Score for Rowesville (29133) is complex. It's not a simple number, but a reflection of the intricate interplay of demographics, housing, neighborhood dynamics, environmental factors, and the availability of local resources. The challenges are real: an aging population, a high prevalence of asthma in the African American community, and potential barriers to healthcare access.

However, the potential for positive change is also significant. The strong sense of community, the natural beauty of the surroundings, and the dedication of local organizations offer a foundation for building a healthier future.

To improve the Asthma Score, Rowesville must:

* **Prioritize affordable and healthy housing:** Advocate for policies and programs that ensure safe and well-maintained homes for all residents.
* **Expand access to healthcare:** Increase the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable medications.
* **Promote asthma education and awareness:** Implement community-wide programs that educate residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and environmental control.
* **Foster community partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, churches, and local government to address the needs of individuals with asthma.
* **Embrace the outdoors responsibly:** Promote outdoor recreation while providing information and resources to help individuals with asthma manage their symptoms and enjoy the natural beauty of Rowesville safely.

The journey towards a healthier Rowesville is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a collective effort, a commitment to addressing the root causes of health disparities, and a willingness to work together to build a community where everyone can breathe easier. The Asthma Score is not just a measure of respiratory health; it’s a reflection of the overall well-being of the community, and a call to action to create a brighter, healthier future for all residents of 29133.