39039, Benton, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39039, Benton, Mississippi is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.45 percent of the residents in 39039 has some form of health insurance. 39.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.78 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39039 would have to travel an average of 9.44 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Baptist Medical Center-Yazoo. In a 20-mile radius, there are 191 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39039, Benton, Mississippi.

## Benton's Beat: A Breast Cancer Score and the Pulse of Community Health in 39039

The Mississippi sun, a relentless artist, paints the sky over Benton, ZIP code 39039, with strokes of fiery orange and bruised purple. It’s a town where the scent of honeysuckle mingles with the promise of freshly tilled earth, a place where front porches whisper stories of generations past. But beneath the surface, like the deep roots of the ancient oaks that shade the town square, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a reality we can begin to understand through a "Breast Cancer Score" lens.

Why breast cancer? Because it’s a health challenge that, while impacting individuals, reflects the broader health landscape of a community. Factors like access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and socioeconomic conditions all contribute to breast cancer risk and, conversely, to a community’s overall well-being. So, let's take a closer look at Benton.

**Demographics: The Building Blocks of Benton's Health**

Benton, like many towns in the South, is a place where family ties run deep. The 2023 census data tells a story of a predominantly white population, with a significant Black community contributing to the rich cultural fabric. The median age hovers around the mid-40s, suggesting a population that's both established and, perhaps, starting to consider the long game of health. The income levels, however, paint a more nuanced picture. While some families thrive, others face economic challenges that can impact access to healthy food, quality healthcare, and safe housing – all crucial factors in breast cancer risk and overall well-being.

Imagine Mrs. Evelyn, a Benton native, her hands weathered from years of tending her vibrant garden. She's a pillar of her church, a woman who knows everyone by name and always has a plate of something delicious to share. But Mrs. Evelyn also knows the sting of loss, the stories of friends and family touched by cancer. Her story, and the stories of others like her, are woven into the fabric of Benton's health profile.

**Places to Live: Where Benton's Health Takes Root**

The neighborhoods of Benton are as diverse as the people who call them home. You have the charming, tree-lined streets of Old Town, where historic homes stand as silent witnesses to the town's evolution. Then there's the newer developments on the outskirts, offering modern amenities and a sense of suburban tranquility. Each area presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to community health.

Consider the families living in the older homes, perhaps facing the challenges of aging infrastructure, potential exposure to lead paint, and limited access to green spaces. Contrast that with the residents of the newer subdivisions, who may have easier access to amenities but face the pressures of a more fast-paced lifestyle, potentially leading to less time for healthy habits.

The location of essential services also plays a crucial role. Is the local grocery store stocked with fresh produce, or is it dominated by processed foods? How accessible is the local clinic for screenings and check-ups? These factors, seemingly small, can have a profound impact on the health of the community.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Benton: Seeds of Wellness**

Benton’s charm lies in its slower pace of life, a stark contrast to the frenetic energy of larger cities. This can be a significant advantage when it comes to fostering healthy lifestyles. The opportunity to connect with nature, to cultivate a sense of community, and to prioritize well-being is readily available.

The beauty of the Pearl River, which gently flows nearby, offers an invitation to outdoor recreation. Imagine the early morning kayakers, their paddles slicing through the still water, or the families enjoying a picnic lunch at the riverbank, breathing in the fresh air. The local parks, like the newly renovated Benton Community Park, offer walking trails, playgrounds, and spaces for community gatherings.

But the lifestyle landscape isn't without its challenges. The availability of healthy food options, the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, and the impact of stress all need to be considered. This is where the community can step in.

**Local Wellness Programs: Nurturing the Roots of Health**

Benton is not a place that stands still. There's a growing awareness of the importance of community health, and that awareness is translating into action. Local initiatives are beginning to take root, offering programs and resources to promote wellness.

Picture the Benton Senior Center, a hub of activity where seniors gather for exercise classes, social events, and health education workshops. Imagine the local church hosting a health fair, offering free screenings and educational materials on breast cancer awareness. Visualize the local farmers market, bursting with fresh, locally grown produce, providing access to healthy food options.

These initiatives, small as they may seem, are vital. They are the seeds of change, the building blocks of a healthier community. They provide opportunities for education, support, and connection, empowering residents to take control of their health.

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

The "neighborhood vibe" is an intangible but powerful force. It's the feeling of belonging, the sense of connection that binds a community together. In Benton, this vibe is palpable. It's the friendly wave from a neighbor, the impromptu conversations on the porch, the shared sense of pride in the town's history.

This social fabric plays a crucial role in community health. Strong social connections provide support, reduce stress, and encourage healthy behaviors. Neighbors look out for each other, offering assistance and encouragement. This sense of community can be a powerful buffer against the challenges of life, including the emotional and practical burdens of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Consider the impact of a local support group for breast cancer survivors, a safe space where women can share their experiences, offer each other comfort, and navigate the complexities of treatment and recovery. Imagine the power of a community-wide awareness campaign, educating residents about early detection and the importance of regular screenings.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Snapshot in Time**

While a definitive "Breast Cancer Score" for Benton isn't a simple calculation, we can paint a picture of the community's health landscape. The score would be a composite of various factors:

* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and screening facilities.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, poverty rates, access to affordable housing, and food security.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Rates of smoking, obesity, physical activity, and healthy eating habits.
* **Environmental Factors:** Exposure to environmental toxins, air and water quality.
* **Community Resources:** Availability of wellness programs, support groups, and health education initiatives.

Each of these factors would be assessed, and a relative score assigned. The overall score would reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses, highlighting areas where improvement is needed.

**The Path Forward: Cultivating a Healthier Benton**

The future of Benton's community health is not predetermined. It's a story that's being written every day, by the residents themselves. It's a story that requires collaboration, commitment, and a willingness to embrace change.

The community can build on its strengths: its strong sense of community, its connection to nature, and its growing awareness of the importance of wellness. It can address its challenges: by increasing access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing socioeconomic disparities.

Imagine a future where:

* Every woman in Benton has access to affordable mammograms and regular screenings.
* The local grocery store is overflowing with fresh, locally grown produce.
* Walking trails and bike paths wind through every neighborhood.
* Community health education programs are readily available and accessible to all.
* The spirit of neighborly support continues to thrive, offering comfort and encouragement to those facing health challenges.

The Mississippi sun continues its daily journey across the sky, casting its golden glow over Benton. The community has the power to cultivate a healthier future. It's a journey that requires dedication, collaboration, and a deep-seated belief in the power of community. It's a journey worth taking, for the health and well-being of every resident, and for the enduring spirit of Benton.