28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.84 percent of the residents in 28358 has some form of health insurance. 49.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.84 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28358 would have to travel an average of 3.07 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Southeastern Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,359 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina.

## The Breast Cancer Score: A Lumberton Pulse Check (ZIP Code 28358)

The air hangs heavy in Lumberton, North Carolina, a humid blanket woven with the scent of pine and the distant rumble of eighteen-wheelers. It's a town that wears its history on its sleeve, a tapestry of resilience woven from generations of families who know the ebb and flow of the Lumber River, the rhythm of the tobacco fields, and the quiet strength of the Southern heart. But beneath the surface of this familiar landscape, a silent threat looms: breast cancer. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community health issue, a complex interplay of factors that shape the lives of the people who call ZIP code 28358 home.

This isn't a clinical report; it's a pulse check. We're taking the temperature of Lumberton, using the lens of breast cancer to understand the broader story of community health. We're not just looking at statistics; we're looking at the lives behind them, the neighborhoods, the challenges, and the opportunities for a healthier future.

**The Demographics: A Mosaic of Resilience**

Before we dive into the specifics, let's paint a picture of the people. ZIP code 28358 is a microcosm of the American South, a blend of cultures, ethnicities, and economic realities. The majority of residents identify as White or Black/African American, with a significant Hispanic/Latino population adding a vibrant layer to the cultural fabric. Family ties run deep here, with generations often living within a stone's throw of each other. This close-knit community is a source of strength, a network of support that can be crucial in times of need.

But this demographic landscape also presents challenges. Poverty rates can be higher than the national average, and access to quality healthcare isn't always a given. These socioeconomic factors can significantly impact a woman's risk of developing breast cancer, from access to preventative screenings to the ability to afford treatment.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Life Unfolds**

Picture this: the sun dips low over the Lumber River, casting long shadows across the lawns of the historic homes on Elm Street. Neighbors gather on porches, the air filled with the murmur of conversation and the scent of grilling. This is the heart of Lumberton, a place where community is palpable.

But not all neighborhoods share the same vibe. Some areas, like the neighborhoods clustered around the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, pulsate with the energy of students and young families. Others, perhaps further from the town center, might face challenges related to infrastructure, environmental hazards, or a lack of access to essential services.

The "neighborhood vibe" is crucial to community health. Safe streets, well-maintained parks, and access to grocery stores with fresh produce contribute to a sense of well-being and encourage healthy habits. Conversely, neglected infrastructure, limited green spaces, and food deserts can create barriers to a healthy lifestyle.

**Places to Live: A Spectrum of Choices**

Where you live in Lumberton can influence your health in subtle but significant ways. Consider the sprawling subdivisions that have sprung up on the outskirts of town, offering newer homes and modern amenities. These areas might appeal to families seeking a more suburban lifestyle, but they can also be car-dependent, potentially limiting opportunities for physical activity.

Then there are the older, more established neighborhoods, with their charming bungalows and tree-lined streets. These areas often boast a stronger sense of community and closer proximity to essential services. However, they may also face challenges related to aging infrastructure or a lack of investment in public spaces.

The availability of affordable and safe housing is a critical factor in community health. Overcrowding, substandard housing conditions, and exposure to environmental hazards can all contribute to increased health risks.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Unpacking the Factors**

So, what does all this mean for the "Breast Cancer Score" in 28358? It's a complex equation, but we can break it down into key components:

* **Access to Healthcare:** This is paramount. Does every woman in Lumberton have access to affordable health insurance? Are there enough primary care physicians and specialists, including oncologists and radiologists? How easy is it to schedule a mammogram or other screenings? The answers to these questions directly impact early detection and treatment outcomes.
* **Healthy Lifestyle:** This encompasses a range of factors, from diet and exercise to smoking and alcohol consumption. Are there opportunities for physical activity, like parks, walking trails, and community sports leagues? Are there grocery stores that offer fresh, affordable produce? Are there programs to help people quit smoking or reduce alcohol consumption?
* **Environmental Factors:** Exposure to environmental toxins can increase the risk of breast cancer. Are there any known environmental hazards in the area, such as industrial pollution or contaminated water sources?
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty, lack of education, and limited access to resources can all contribute to poorer health outcomes. Are there programs to address these challenges, such as job training initiatives, affordable housing programs, and educational opportunities?
* **Awareness and Education:** Are there community outreach programs that raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide support to survivors?

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope**

Fortunately, Lumberton isn't standing still. There are glimmers of hope, seeds of positive change sprouting in the community.

* **The Southeastern Health System:** This is the major healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of services, including cancer screenings and treatment. The hospital's commitment to community outreach and education is vital.
* **Local Churches and Community Centers:** These institutions often serve as vital hubs for health education and support. They can provide a safe space for women to learn about breast cancer, access resources, and connect with others.
* **The Robeson County Health Department:** This agency plays a crucial role in promoting public health, offering screenings, and providing educational programs.
* **The University of North Carolina at Pembroke:** The university can be a valuable partner in community health initiatives, providing research, expertise, and student volunteers.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Fresh Air**

Lumberton's natural beauty offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The Lumber River itself is a treasure, a place for kayaking, canoeing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. Parks and green spaces, though perhaps needing further development in some areas, provide opportunities for walking, running, and outdoor recreation.

Imagine a group of women, gathering at a local park for a morning walk, sharing stories, and supporting each other. This is the power of outdoor recreation – it's not just about physical activity; it's about building community, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of well-being.

**The Path Forward: A Call to Action**

The "Breast Cancer Score" in 28358 isn't a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the community's health. Improving that score requires a collective effort, a commitment from individuals, organizations, and local government.

Here's what needs to happen:

* **Increase Access to Healthcare:** Expand access to affordable health insurance, ensure there are enough healthcare providers, and make it easier for women to get screened for breast cancer.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Invest in parks and green spaces, support farmers' markets, and create programs to encourage healthy eating and physical activity.
* **Address Environmental Concerns:** Identify and mitigate environmental hazards, and advocate for policies that protect the environment.
* **Support Community Organizations:** Provide funding and resources to local organizations that are working to improve community health.
* **Raise Awareness and Education:** Continue to educate women about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide support to survivors.

**The Final Scene:**

Picture this: a bright, sunny Saturday morning. A group of women, some survivors, some at risk, some simply supportive friends, gather at a newly revitalized park near the Lumber River. They're participating in a "Pink Ribbon Walk," a community event that celebrates life, raises awareness about breast cancer, and raises funds for local support programs. The air is filled with laughter, the music of a local band, and the shared sense of purpose. This is the spirit of Lumberton, the resilience, the determination to build a healthier future, one step, one screening, one community at a time. The "Breast Cancer Score" in 28358 isn't just about numbers; it's about the lives of the people who call this place home. It's about the strength of their community, and their unwavering hope for a healthier tomorrow.