28518, Beulaville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28518, Beulaville, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.17 percent of the residents in 28518 has some form of health insurance. 45.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.59 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28518 would have to travel an average of 11.71 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Duplin Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 280 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28518, Beulaville, North Carolina.

## Busting Myths and Building Strength: Your Breast Cancer Score in Beulaville, NC (ZIP Code 28518)

The humid air hangs thick over Beulaville, North Carolina, a place where the scent of freshly tilled earth mingles with the quiet hum of everyday life. This isn't a place that shouts. It whispers. And sometimes, those whispers are about health, about the silent threat of breast cancer. We're here to break the silence, to look at the health of this community, to give you a "Breast Cancer Score" – not a clinical diagnosis, but a snapshot of the factors that shape your well-being in the 28518 ZIP code. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lived experience of Beulaville.

**The Heart of the Matter: Understanding the Score**

Our "Breast Cancer Score" considers a range of influences, from access to healthcare to the availability of healthy food, the opportunities for physical activity, and the very fabric of the community. It’s a holistic view, recognizing that breast cancer risk is not a singular event but a complex interplay of factors. We'll explore these elements, painting a picture of Beulaville's strengths and areas for growth.

**Demographics: The Faces of 28518**

Beulaville, like many rural communities, has a distinct character. The 2023 Census data tells a story of a predominantly white population, with a significant Black community, and a smaller but growing Hispanic population. The median age hovers around 40, a testament to a community that values roots and family.

Picture Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident, tending her vibrant flower garden. She’s seen generations grow up in Beulaville. Then there's young Maria, recently arrived, excited to start her family. Their experiences, their access to resources, their understanding of their own health – these are all woven into the tapestry of the community.

The economic landscape is primarily agricultural, with poultry farming and related industries providing many jobs. This can create a unique set of challenges. For example, access to health insurance and paid sick leave may be less consistent than in more urban areas.

**Places to Live: From Quiet Streets to the Open Road**

Beulaville offers a range of housing options, from charming older homes with wraparound porches to newer, more modern builds. The cost of living is generally lower than in larger cities, a significant draw for families seeking affordability.

Imagine driving down Main Street, the sun glinting off the windows of the local businesses. You see the familiar faces of neighbors, a sense of belonging that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. But access to healthcare can be a concern. The nearest hospital, Vidant Duplin Hospital, is a drive away, and specialized care, like mammograms and oncology services, may require travel to larger cities like Greenville or Jacksonville. This distance can be a barrier to early detection and treatment.

**The Vibe: Community Spirit and Social Connections**

Beulaville is a place where neighbors know each other. The community thrives on a strong sense of connection. Church gatherings, school events, and local festivals are the lifeblood of social interaction. This social cohesion is a powerful protective factor. Strong social networks can provide support, reduce stress, and encourage healthy behaviors.

Think of the annual Beulaville Day celebration, the laughter echoing through the park, the shared meals, the feeling of belonging. This is the essence of the community, the glue that holds it together.

However, social isolation, a growing concern in many communities, can also exist. Older residents, those with limited mobility, or those facing financial hardships may find it difficult to participate in community activities. This isolation can negatively impact their health and well-being.

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

Beulaville offers opportunities to connect with nature. The surrounding countryside is dotted with farms and woodlands, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the outdoors.

Picture a crisp autumn morning, the leaves ablaze with color. You're walking along a quiet country road, the air filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. This access to nature is a valuable asset, promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and improving mental well-being.

However, the availability of dedicated recreational facilities, like parks and walking trails, may be limited compared to more urban areas. This can make it more challenging for residents to incorporate regular exercise into their routines.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Beulaville: The Building Blocks of Wellness**

This is where the rubber meets the road. A healthy lifestyle is the foundation of breast cancer prevention and overall well-being.

* **Nutrition:** Access to fresh, healthy food is crucial. While Beulaville has local grocery stores, the availability of fresh produce and healthy options may be limited compared to larger supermarkets. The presence of farmers' markets, community gardens, and initiatives promoting healthy eating habits can significantly improve the community's health.

* **Physical Activity:** Regular exercise is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Walking, running, cycling, and other forms of physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer. The availability of safe places to exercise, like parks, walking trails, and community centers, is essential.

* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight is another key factor. Obesity increases the risk of breast cancer. Access to information and resources on healthy eating and exercise is crucial.

* **Alcohol Consumption:** Limiting alcohol consumption is important. Excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of breast cancer.

* **Smoking Cessation:** Smoking is a known risk factor for many cancers, including breast cancer. Access to smoking cessation programs is vital.

**Local Wellness Programs: Champions of Health**

Beulaville, like many communities, has its own champions of health. These are the individuals, organizations, and programs working to improve the well-being of residents.

* **Local Healthcare Providers:** The primary care physicians and other healthcare providers in Beulaville play a critical role in providing preventative care, including breast cancer screenings.
* **Community Health Centers:** These centers often offer a range of services, including health education, screenings, and support groups.
* **Churches and Faith-Based Organizations:** Many churches and religious organizations play a vital role in promoting health and well-being, offering support groups, educational programs, and other resources.
* **Schools:** Schools can play a key role in educating children and families about healthy lifestyles.
* **Local Government:** The local government can support health initiatives by investing in parks and recreation, promoting healthy food options, and supporting community health programs.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Snapshot and a Call to Action**

Based on the factors we've explored, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Beulaville, NC (28518) is a mixed bag.

**Strengths:**

* Strong community spirit and social connections.
* Relatively affordable cost of living.
* Access to outdoor recreation.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* Limited access to specialized healthcare services, including mammograms and oncology.
* Potential challenges in accessing healthy food options.
* Limited availability of dedicated recreational facilities.
* Potential barriers to healthcare access due to economic factors.

**A Call to Action:**

This "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a judgment; it's a starting point. It's a call to action for the community to work together to improve its health.

* **Advocate for increased access to healthcare:** Support efforts to bring more healthcare providers and specialized services to Beulaville. Advocate for mobile mammography units to visit the area.
* **Promote healthy eating:** Support local farmers' markets, community gardens, and initiatives that promote healthy food options.
* **Expand recreational opportunities:** Advocate for the development of parks, walking trails, and other recreational facilities.
* **Support community health programs:** Encourage and support local wellness programs that provide health education, screenings, and support groups.
* **Foster social connections:** Continue to build on the strong community spirit and social connections that already exist. Encourage participation in community activities and support groups.

**The Future of Health in Beulaville**

The future of health in Beulaville is not predetermined. It's being written every day by the actions of its residents, its healthcare providers, and its community leaders. By working together, by addressing the challenges and building on the strengths, the community can improve its "Breast Cancer Score" and create a healthier, more vibrant future for everyone.

Imagine a future where Mrs. Johnson can easily access her annual mammogram, where Maria can find affordable, healthy food for her growing family, where children have safe places to play and exercise. This is the vision, the goal. It’s a future where Beulaville thrives, not just survives. It's a future built on community, on resilience, and on the unwavering commitment to a healthier tomorrow.