23510, Norfolk, Virginia Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 23510, Norfolk, Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.74 percent of the residents in 23510 has some form of health insurance. 32.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.37 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 23510 would have to travel an average of 0.84 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,141 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 23510, Norfolk, Virginia.

## Breathing Easy in 23510: A Community Health Score for Norfolk's Heart

The salty tang of the Elizabeth River hangs in the air, a constant reminder of 23510's connection to the water. It’s a zip code that pulses with a unique rhythm, a blend of historic charm and modern ambition, of vibrant street life and quiet residential pockets. But beneath the surface, a crucial question simmers: how healthy is 23510, and specifically, how well are its residents breathing? This article delves into the community health landscape of this Norfolk zip code, focusing on asthma prevalence, potential triggers, and the resources available to help its residents thrive. We’ll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibes, the outdoor recreation opportunities, and the local wellness programs that shape the community's health score.

**The Breath of the City: Understanding Asthma in 23510**

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, disproportionately affects certain communities. In 23510, like many urban areas, factors like air quality, housing conditions, and access to healthcare can significantly impact asthma prevalence. While precise, up-to-the-minute asthma rates for 23510 are difficult to pinpoint due to the dynamic nature of data collection, we can draw insights from broader Norfolk statistics and national trends to understand the challenges and opportunities.

Imagine a child, Maya, skipping rope on the cracked sidewalk in front of her brightly painted house on East Princess Anne Road. The humid air, heavy with the scent of blooming crepe myrtles, feels thick in her lungs. Suddenly, a tightness grips her chest, a familiar, unwelcome visitor. This is the reality for many children and adults in 23510, where asthma triggers can be found both indoors and out.

**Decoding the Demographics: A Snapshot of the Community**

23510 is a diverse zip code, a tapestry woven from various backgrounds and experiences. Understanding the demographics is key to understanding the community's health needs. The area is a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and pockets of historic charm.

* **Age:** The population includes a significant number of families with young children, a demographic particularly vulnerable to asthma.
* **Socioeconomic Status:** Variations in income levels exist within 23510. Lower-income households may face challenges like substandard housing, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to environmental hazards, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
* **Race and Ethnicity:** The community is a vibrant blend of races and ethnicities. Some studies suggest that asthma prevalence can vary across different racial and ethnic groups, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare and outreach programs.

**Places to Live: The Heart of the Neighborhoods**

The character of 23510 is defined by its distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality and challenges.

* **Downtown Norfolk:** While offering proximity to cultural attractions and employment opportunities, the downtown area can experience higher levels of air pollution due to traffic congestion.
* **Ghent:** Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, Ghent offers a more residential feel. However, older homes may have issues with mold and allergens, which can trigger asthma.
* **Lafayette/Winona:** These neighborhoods offer a blend of residential and commercial spaces.
* **The Hague:** This area features a mix of housing styles, from historic homes to modern apartments. Proximity to the water can mean higher humidity levels, which can trigger asthma in some individuals.

**Vignette: The House on Colonial Avenue**

Picture a beautifully renovated Victorian home on Colonial Avenue. Inside, the air is cool and clean, thanks to a state-of-the-art air filtration system. The family, mindful of their child's asthma, has taken proactive steps to create a healthy living environment. They've replaced carpets with hardwood floors, use hypoallergenic bedding, and regularly clean to eliminate dust mites and mold. Outside, they’ve chosen low-allergen landscaping, avoiding plants known to trigger asthma symptoms. This family’s experience highlights the importance of individual actions in managing asthma, but it also underscores the need for community-wide efforts to address broader environmental concerns.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Factors and Asthma Triggers**

The environment plays a crucial role in asthma management. In 23510, several factors can contribute to asthma triggers:

* **Air Quality:** Proximity to major roadways and industrial areas can lead to higher levels of air pollutants, such as ozone and particulate matter. These pollutants can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms.
* **Indoor Allergens:** Dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches are common indoor allergens that can trigger asthma attacks. Substandard housing conditions, such as leaks and poor ventilation, can exacerbate these issues.
* **Pollen and Seasonal Allergies:** The changing seasons bring fluctuations in pollen levels, which can trigger allergic asthma.

**Outdoor Recreation: Finding Breathable Spaces**

Despite the environmental challenges, 23510 offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

* **The Elizabeth River Trail:** This scenic trail provides a pathway for walking, running, and cycling, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing exposure to traffic.
* **Parks and Green Spaces:** Parks like Town Point Park and Harbor Park offer green spaces for relaxation and recreation. However, it's essential to be mindful of pollen levels during peak allergy seasons.
* **Water Activities:** The proximity to the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and other water activities.

**Vignette: A Run Along the Trail**

Imagine a young woman, Sarah, lacing up her running shoes. She heads towards the Elizabeth River Trail, the sun dappling through the trees. She knows her asthma is triggered by certain environmental factors, so she checks the air quality report before she leaves. She carries her inhaler, just in case. As she runs, she feels the wind on her face, the rhythm of her feet on the pavement, and a sense of freedom. This experience demonstrates the importance of being aware of individual triggers and taking precautions while enjoying outdoor activities.

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

Several local wellness programs and resources are available in 23510 to support community health and asthma management:

* **Healthcare Providers:** Numerous primary care physicians, pediatricians, and specialists in the area provide asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management.
* **Hospitals and Clinics:** Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and other healthcare facilities offer comprehensive asthma care and emergency services.
* **Community Health Centers:** These centers often provide affordable healthcare services, including asthma education and management programs.
* **The Norfolk Department of Public Health:** This department offers various programs and resources related to asthma prevention and control, including environmental health inspections and educational materials.
* **Non-profit Organizations:** Organizations like the American Lung Association and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America provide valuable information, support, and advocacy for asthma sufferers.

**Vignette: The Asthma Education Class**

Picture a community room filled with people of all ages. They're attending an asthma education class led by a certified respiratory therapist. They learn about asthma triggers, medication management, and how to create a healthy living environment. They share their experiences, support each other, and leave feeling empowered to manage their asthma and improve their quality of life. This scene underscores the importance of community-based education and support in asthma management.

**The Score: Assessing Community Health in 23510**

While it's impossible to assign a single "Asthma Score" to 23510, we can assess the community's health landscape based on the factors discussed.

* **Strengths:**
* **Access to Healthcare:** The presence of numerous healthcare providers and facilities provides access to asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management.
* **Community Resources:** Local wellness programs, community health centers, and non-profit organizations offer valuable resources and support for asthma sufferers.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** The Elizabeth River Trail and parks offer opportunities for physical activity and connection to nature.
* **Challenges:**
* **Environmental Factors:** Air pollution, indoor allergens, and pollen can trigger asthma symptoms.
* **Socioeconomic Disparities:** Lower-income households may face challenges in accessing healthcare and creating healthy living environments.
* **Housing Conditions:** Substandard housing can contribute to indoor allergens and asthma triggers.
* **Opportunities for Improvement:**
* **Air Quality Initiatives:** Advocate for policies and programs that improve air quality in the area.
* **Housing Improvements:** Support initiatives that address substandard housing conditions and promote healthy living environments.
* **Community Education:** Expand asthma education and awareness programs to reach a wider audience.
* **Collaboration:** Foster collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents to address asthma-related issues.

**Breathing Easy: A Call to Action**

Improving community health in 23510 requires a collaborative effort. Residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government must work together to address environmental factors, promote healthy lifestyles, and ensure access to quality healthcare. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and supporting local wellness programs, we can create a community where everyone can breathe easy.

The salty breeze from the Elizabeth River still whispers through the streets of 23510. But with a concerted effort, the community can ensure that the air is not just a reminder of the water, but a symbol of health, vitality, and a future where asthma is no longer a barrier to a full and active life. The work continues, one breath, one neighborhood, one initiative at a time.