The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07730, Hazlet, New Jersey is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.44 percent of the residents in 07730 has some form of health insurance. 27.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 07730 would have to travel an average of 1.33 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Bayshore Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,638 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 07730, Hazlet, New Jersey.
Health Scores in 07730, Hazlet, New Jersey
Breast Cancer Score | 61 |
---|---|
People Score | 40 |
Provider Score | 67 |
Hospital Score | 18 |
Travel Score | 82 |
07730 | Hazlet | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 72.64 | 72.64 | 61.27 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 14.30 | 14.30 | 12.13 |
Medicare | 20.11 | 20.11 | 16.80 |
Medicaid | 9.08 | 9.08 | 17.08 |
TRICARE | 0.46 | 0.46 | 0.98 |
VA | 52.91 | 52.91 | 51.38 |
Percent Insured in 07730, Hazlet, New Jersey
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
07730 | Hazlet | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 99.51 | 99.51 | 96.04 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 95.81 | 95.81 | 89.33 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 98.94 |
## Hazlet's Heartbeat: Decoding the Breast Cancer Score in 07730
The salt-laced air whips off the Raritan Bay, carrying with it the scent of possibility. In Hazlet, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07730), that possibility is woven into the fabric of the community, a tapestry of families, businesses, and the unwavering spirit of the Jersey Shore. But beneath the surface of sunny days and friendly faces, a silent threat looms: breast cancer. Understanding the community's health, its vulnerabilities, and its strengths is crucial to empowering residents to live longer, healthier lives. We're not just talking about statistics; we're talking about the very heartbeat of Hazlet.
This isn't a simple "score" in the traditional sense. It's a deep dive into the factors that influence breast cancer risk and survival within 07730, a snapshot of the community's current health landscape, and a call to action for a healthier future.
**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**
Hazlet, like many Jersey Shore towns, is a melting pot. Walking down Route 35, you'll hear snippets of conversations in Italian, Polish, and Spanish, a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage. The median age hovers around 40, reflecting a mix of established families and younger couples drawn to the affordability and proximity to New York City. This demographic diversity is a strength, but it also presents unique challenges.
Consider Maria, a vibrant grandmother who has lived in Hazlet her entire life. She raised her children here, watched the town evolve, and now enjoys doting on her grandchildren. Maria embodies the resilience of Hazlet's older generation, but she also faces increased risk factors associated with age. Access to preventative care, including mammograms, becomes paramount.
Then there's David and Sarah, a young couple who recently purchased their first home in the Cliffwood Beach section. They're starting a family, eager to build a life in a community they love. Their health choices – diet, exercise, and stress management – will significantly impact their long-term well-being and their children's future.
Understanding these diverse demographics is the first step in tailoring health initiatives to meet the specific needs of the community.
**Places to Live: A Patchwork of Neighborhoods**
Hazlet is more than just a ZIP code; it's a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.
* **Cliffwood Beach:** This waterfront community boasts stunning views of the Raritan Bay. Its proximity to the beach encourages an active lifestyle, with residents walking, jogging, and enjoying water sports. However, the older housing stock in some areas might present challenges related to environmental factors, such as exposure to radon or mold, which can indirectly impact health.
* **The West Side:** This area is known for its tree-lined streets and established homes. It's a family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to parks and schools. The availability of green spaces encourages outdoor activities, which are vital for physical and mental health.
* **The East Side:** This section offers a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments. Proximity to shopping centers and restaurants provides convenience, but it also necessitates a conscious effort to make healthy choices.
* **The Gardens:** This area is characterized by its newer construction and modern amenities. It attracts a younger demographic, often with families.
The quality of housing, access to green spaces, and proximity to amenities all contribute to a neighborhood's overall health profile.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Belonging**
Hazlet's true strength lies in its strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, kids play together, and local businesses thrive on personal connections. This social cohesion is a powerful protective factor against chronic diseases, including breast cancer.
Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez, a lifelong resident who organizes weekly potlucks in her backyard. These gatherings are more than just social events; they're opportunities for neighbors to connect, share support, and encourage healthy habits. The laughter, the shared meals, the sense of belonging – these are the intangible elements that contribute to a healthier community.
This tight-knit community also fosters a sense of accountability. When one neighbor sees another struggling, they're more likely to offer support, whether it's a ride to a doctor's appointment or a helping hand with childcare.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**
Hazlet offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.
Picture the sun glinting off the waters of the Raritan Bay as families stroll along the Hazlet Township Waterfront Park. Children chase seagulls, couples hold hands, and seniors enjoy the gentle sea breeze. This park provides a safe and accessible space for exercise and relaxation.
The town also boasts several parks and recreational areas, including Veterans Park and the Henry Hudson Trail. These spaces encourage physical activity, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being.
However, access to these resources isn't always equal. Ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, have access to safe and well-maintained parks is essential.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Hazlet: The Building Blocks of Wellness**
Promoting a healthy lifestyle is fundamental to reducing breast cancer risk. This involves a multifaceted approach:
* **Diet:** Encouraging a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is crucial. Local farmers' markets and community gardens can provide access to fresh, affordable produce.
* **Exercise:** Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and boosting the immune system. Promoting walking, jogging, and other forms of exercise is key.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of many cancers.
* **Stress Management:** Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of disease. Yoga classes, meditation groups, and community support networks can help residents manage stress.
* **Smoking Cessation:** Smoking is a major risk factor for many cancers. Providing resources and support for smokers to quit is vital.
* **Alcohol Consumption:** Limiting alcohol consumption is important.
**Local Wellness Programs: A Beacon of Hope**
Hazlet has several local wellness programs that are making a difference in the community.
* **The Hazlet Health Department:** This department plays a crucial role in providing health education, screenings, and resources to residents. They often partner with local organizations to host health fairs, workshops, and support groups.
* **Local Hospitals and Medical Centers:** These facilities offer mammograms, cancer screenings, and other preventative services. They also provide educational programs and support groups for patients and their families.
* **Community Centers:** These centers often offer fitness classes, wellness programs, and support groups.
* **Local Businesses:** Businesses can play a role by offering wellness programs for their employees, sponsoring community events, and supporting local health initiatives.
Imagine the energy of a Zumba class at the Hazlet Community Center, the camaraderie of a breast cancer support group meeting at the library, or the informative discussions at a health fair in the town square. These programs are vital to empowering residents to take control of their health.
**The Breast Cancer Score: A Living Document**
This isn't a static score; it's a living document, a starting point for ongoing dialogue and action. To improve the community's health profile, we need to:
* **Increase Access to Screening:** Ensure that all women, regardless of their socioeconomic status or insurance coverage, have access to affordable mammograms and other cancer screenings.
* **Promote Early Detection:** Educate residents about the importance of early detection and encourage them to report any changes in their breasts to their doctor.
* **Support Research:** Advocate for increased funding for breast cancer research and support local researchers.
* **Foster Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders to create a comprehensive approach to breast cancer prevention and treatment.
* **Address Health Disparities:** Identify and address health disparities within the community, ensuring that all residents have equal access to healthcare and resources.
* **Create a Culture of Wellness:** Promote a culture of wellness throughout the community, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and providing support for those who need it.
**The Future: A Healthier Hazlet**
The journey toward a healthier Hazlet is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires the collective effort of residents, healthcare providers, community leaders, and local businesses.
Imagine a future where:
* Every woman in Hazlet has access to regular mammograms.
* Children grow up in a community that prioritizes healthy eating and active lifestyles.
* The community is united in its commitment to supporting those affected by breast cancer.
* Hazlet is known not only for its beautiful waterfront but also for its vibrant, healthy community.
This is the vision, the promise, of a healthier Hazlet. It's a vision worth fighting for, a vision that starts with understanding the community's heart and working together to make it beat stronger, healthier, and more resilient than ever before.
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