39154, Raymond, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.05 percent of the residents in 39154 has some form of health insurance. 30.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.36 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39154 would have to travel an average of 11.81 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Merit Health Central. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,030 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi.

## The Raymond Rumble: Decoding the Breast Cancer Score in 39154

The Mississippi sun, a relentless painter, casts long shadows across the rolling hills of Raymond, ZIP code 39154. Here, where history whispers from antebellum homes and the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the sweet perfume of magnolia blossoms, a silent battle rages. It's a battle fought not with cannons and muskets, but with the quiet, persistent enemy of breast cancer. And in Raymond, like communities across the nation, understanding the local landscape is crucial to winning the war.

This isn't just about statistics; it's about lives. It's about the women who gather at the Raymond Country Club for a round of golf, the mothers pushing strollers through the park, the grandmothers tending their vibrant flower gardens. It's about the vibrant tapestry of Raymond, and how we can weave a stronger, healthier thread through it.

So, let's decode the "Breast Cancer Score" for 39154. This isn't a numerical grade, but a holistic understanding of the community health landscape, a look at the factors that contribute to risk and resilience, and a call to action for a healthier future.

**The Demographics Dance: Understanding the Players**

Raymond is a town of stories, and the demographics are the opening chapters. Knowing the population, its composition, and its economic realities is the first step in understanding the health challenges it faces.

The 2020 Census paints a picture: a population hovering around 2,000, a community that's predominantly white, with a significant Black population. This racial makeup is a crucial factor. Studies consistently show that Black women experience higher rates of breast cancer mortality, a disparity often linked to systemic inequities in access to healthcare, screening, and treatment.

The median household income in 39154 is lower than the national average. This economic reality often translates to limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe environments for physical activity. The stresses of financial insecurity can also contribute to chronic stress, a known risk factor for various health problems, including cancer.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident of Raymond, juggling two jobs to make ends meet. Her time is precious, and healthcare appointments might feel like a luxury. Or consider Ms. Davis, a retired schoolteacher, struggling to afford the healthy groceries needed for a balanced diet. These are not isolated cases; they are the realities that shape the health landscape of Raymond.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Life Unfolds**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is more than just aesthetics; it’s the pulse of the community, the social fabric that either supports or hinders healthy choices.

Raymond’s charm lies in its blend of small-town intimacy and accessibility. The historic downtown square, with its antique shops and local businesses, fosters a sense of community. The friendly faces at the local Piggly Wiggly, the casual conversations at the post office – these are the threads that bind the town together.

But a vibrant community also needs resources. Are there sidewalks and bike paths that encourage outdoor activity? Are there community gardens where residents can grow their own food? Are there opportunities for social connection that reduce feelings of isolation, a known risk factor for health problems?

Consider the sprawling lawns and beautiful homes that line the streets. Are these spaces accessible for walking and exercising? Are there parks and green spaces where families can gather and play? The answers to these questions paint a vivid picture of the neighborhood's health potential.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of Health**

Where people live impacts their health in profound ways. The quality of housing, the proximity to essential services, and the safety of the environment all play a role.

In Raymond, the housing stock is diverse, ranging from historic homes with character to newer developments. The presence of well-maintained homes and yards speaks to a sense of pride and community investment.

However, access to healthcare is crucial. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable healthcare facilities directly impacts breast cancer screening rates and early detection. Are there enough doctors in Raymond? Are there mobile mammography units that visit the area? These are critical questions that must be addressed.

Furthermore, the presence of environmental hazards, such as exposure to pollutants or contaminated water, can also increase cancer risk. The local environment must be carefully assessed and monitored to ensure the safety of residents.

**The Power of Prevention: Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle in Raymond**

Prevention is the cornerstone of breast cancer control. This is where Raymond can shine, by fostering a community that actively promotes healthy lifestyles.

Imagine the farmers market, a vibrant hub of fresh produce, where residents can access locally grown fruits and vegetables. Picture a community center offering cooking classes that teach healthy meal preparation. Envision walking groups that explore the scenic trails around town, encouraging physical activity and social connection.

The key is to create a culture of wellness, where healthy choices are the easy choices. This means making sure that healthy food is affordable and accessible, that safe spaces for exercise are available, and that the community supports each other in making positive changes.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Champions of Change**

Raymond isn't alone in its fight against breast cancer. There are likely local wellness programs already working to support the community.

Perhaps the local hospital hosts free mammogram screenings, or the YMCA offers exercise classes tailored to women. Maybe a local church group organizes educational workshops on breast cancer awareness. These programs are the champions of change, the boots on the ground, working to empower residents with knowledge and resources.

Identifying and supporting these programs is crucial. They need funding, volunteers, and community participation to thrive. The more resources they have, the more impact they can make.

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

The Mississippi landscape is a natural playground, and Raymond has the potential to leverage its outdoor spaces for health and wellness.

Picture the trails winding through the local parks, inviting residents to hike, bike, and enjoy the fresh air. Imagine community events that encourage outdoor activities, like a fun run or a family picnic.

Outdoor recreation is not just about physical activity; it’s also about mental well-being. Spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall health.

**The Call to Action: Building a Healthier Raymond**

Decoding the "Breast Cancer Score" for 39154 is not just about identifying the challenges; it's about outlining the opportunities. It's about recognizing the strengths of the community and mobilizing resources to address the weaknesses.

Here are some key areas for action:

* **Increase access to healthcare:** Advocate for more healthcare providers, affordable screening programs, and mobile mammography units.
* **Promote healthy eating:** Support the farmers market, community gardens, and cooking classes that teach healthy meal preparation.
* **Encourage physical activity:** Develop more walking and biking trails, and organize community events that promote outdoor recreation.
* **Foster social connection:** Create opportunities for residents to connect and support each other, reducing feelings of isolation.
* **Raise awareness:** Educate the community about breast cancer risk factors, early detection, and available resources.
* **Support local wellness programs:** Provide funding, volunteers, and community participation to the organizations that are working to improve health outcomes.
* **Address health disparities:** Acknowledge and address the unique challenges faced by Black women and other underserved populations.

The fight against breast cancer is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a sustained commitment from the entire community. By working together, by embracing healthy lifestyles, and by supporting the programs that are making a difference, Raymond can create a healthier future for all its residents.

The sun sets over Raymond, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange. The shadows lengthen, but the spirit of the community remains strong. The battle continues, but with knowledge, resources, and a shared commitment to wellness, Raymond can write a new chapter, one of hope, resilience, and a future free from the shadow of breast cancer. This is the Raymond Rumble, and the community is ready to fight.