39556, Kiln, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39556, Kiln, Mississippi is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.09 percent of the residents in 39556 has some form of health insurance. 48.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.63 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39556 would have to travel an average of 10.16 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,585 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39556, Kiln, Mississippi.

## Kiln, Mississippi: A Breast Cancer Scorecard for Community Health (ZIP Code 39556)

The humid Mississippi air hangs heavy over Kiln, a small town nestled in the heart of Hancock County. Spanish moss drapes from ancient oaks, casting long shadows across the quiet roads. This is a place where generations have put down roots, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the ebb and flow of the nearby Bay of St. Louis. But beneath the surface of this idyllic setting, the specter of breast cancer, a disease that touches every community, casts a long shadow. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lived experiences of the people of Kiln, their access to care, their daily choices, and the very fabric of their community health. This is a Breast Cancer Scorecard for Kiln, Mississippi, ZIP Code 39556.

**Understanding the Landscape: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Before we can assess the health of a community, we must understand who calls it home. Kiln, with its ZIP code 39556, is a tapestry woven with diverse threads. The population is predominantly white, with a significant African American population, reflecting the historical realities of the South. The median age skews slightly older than the national average, a factor that can influence health outcomes, particularly regarding age-related diseases.

The economic landscape is a crucial piece of the puzzle. Hancock County, while experiencing some growth, has historically faced economic challenges. This can translate to limited access to resources, including quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe environments for physical activity. The presence of a significant number of families living below the poverty line, as is the case in some areas of Kiln, is a critical factor in any community health assessment.

The geographical layout of Kiln itself plays a role. The town sprawls, with homes dotted along winding country roads. This dispersed population can make accessing healthcare facilities, particularly specialized services like mammography and oncology, a logistical challenge. The proximity to the Gulf Coast, while offering recreational opportunities, also exposes residents to the potential health risks associated with hurricanes and other natural disasters, which can disrupt access to care and exacerbate existing health disparities.

**The Vibe: A Snapshot of Kiln Life**

Imagine a Saturday morning in Kiln. The air is thick with the scent of pine and the distant rumble of a lawnmower. A pickup truck, its bed overflowing with freshly cut timber, rumbles past a small, weathered church. Children chase each other across a sprawling lawn, their laughter echoing in the stillness. This is the essence of Kiln – a sense of community, of connection to the land, and a slower pace of life.

But this idyllic scene doesn't tell the whole story. The "neighborhood vibe" is complex, influenced by factors that can both promote and hinder community health. The strong sense of community, often manifested in church gatherings, local festivals, and volunteer efforts, can be a powerful force for good. These gatherings provide social support, a crucial element in navigating the challenges of any health crisis.

However, the close-knit nature of the community can also create barriers. Stigma surrounding health issues, including breast cancer, can be prevalent. Conversations about health, particularly preventative care, may be less common than in other communities. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

**Places to Live: A Reflection of Community Well-being**

The quality of housing in Kiln is a direct reflection of the community's overall well-being. While some areas boast well-maintained homes and manicured lawns, others struggle with aging infrastructure and limited resources. The presence of substandard housing can contribute to a range of health problems, from respiratory issues to increased stress levels.

Consider the homes nestled along the tree-lined streets, the porches shaded by sprawling oaks. These homes represent a sense of stability and security, a foundation for healthy living. But what about the homes further out, perhaps with limited access to clean water or reliable sanitation? These factors can significantly impact a family's health and their ability to prioritize preventative care.

The availability of affordable housing is also a critical factor. When families struggle to make ends meet, healthcare often takes a backseat. This can lead to delayed screenings and treatment, ultimately impacting breast cancer outcomes.

**The Breast Cancer Scorecard: Assessing the Key Indicators**

A true assessment of breast cancer risk and community health requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to consider several key indicators, each offering a glimpse into the health of Kiln's residents.

* **Screening Rates:** How frequently are women in Kiln undergoing mammograms? Are there barriers to access, such as lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, or a shortage of screening facilities? Low screening rates are a red flag, indicating a potential for late-stage diagnoses.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Is there a sufficient number of primary care physicians and specialists in the area? Are there any free or low-cost clinics available? The presence of a robust healthcare infrastructure is vital for early detection and treatment.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** What is the prevalence of obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption in Kiln? These lifestyle choices are significant risk factors for breast cancer. Promoting healthy behaviors through education and resources is crucial.
* **Environmental Factors:** Are there any environmental hazards in the area, such as exposure to pollutants or contaminated water? Environmental factors can contribute to increased cancer risk.
* **Social Determinants of Health:** How do factors like poverty, education levels, and access to healthy food impact the health of Kiln residents? These social determinants play a significant role in overall well-being and breast cancer outcomes.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope in the Community**

Despite the challenges, Kiln is not without its strengths. The community is home to several organizations and individuals working to improve the health of its residents.

* **Community Health Centers:** These centers often provide vital services, including primary care, screenings, and health education. They may offer sliding-scale fees, making healthcare more accessible to low-income families.
* **Local Churches:** Churches often play a central role in community life, providing social support, organizing health fairs, and promoting healthy lifestyles. They can be powerful allies in raising awareness about breast cancer and encouraging early detection.
* **Volunteer Organizations:** Dedicated volunteers may be working to raise funds for breast cancer research, provide support to survivors, and advocate for improved access to care.
* **Local Gyms and Fitness Centers:** These facilities can play a crucial role in promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural Beauty**

Kiln's natural beauty offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

* **Hiking and Biking Trails:** The surrounding forests and waterways offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. These activities can help residents maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and connect with nature.
* **Parks and Recreation Areas:** Local parks and recreation areas provide spaces for families to gather, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors.
* **Water Activities:** The proximity to the Bay of St. Louis offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.

**Recommendations: Charting a Course for a Healthier Future**

Improving the breast cancer scorecard for Kiln requires a concerted effort from the community, healthcare providers, and local government.

* **Increase Screening Rates:** Implement targeted outreach programs to encourage women to get regular mammograms. Offer free or low-cost screenings, and address any transportation or financial barriers.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased funding for community health centers and other healthcare providers. Recruit more primary care physicians and specialists to the area.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Launch educational campaigns to raise awareness about breast cancer risk factors and promote healthy eating, regular exercise, and smoking cessation.
* **Address Social Determinants of Health:** Work to reduce poverty, improve educational opportunities, and increase access to affordable housing.
* **Foster Community Partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, local organizations, churches, and community leaders.

**The Road Ahead: A Community's Commitment**

Kiln, Mississippi, is a community with a rich history, a strong sense of identity, and a deep commitment to its people. Addressing the challenges of breast cancer and improving community health requires a sustained effort, a willingness to confront difficult issues, and a shared vision for a healthier future. It's about recognizing the strengths of the community, building on existing resources, and working together to create a place where all residents have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. The breast cancer scorecard for Kiln is not just a collection of statistics; it's a call to action, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a promise of a brighter tomorrow.