11746, Huntington Station, New York Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11746, Huntington Station, New York is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.07 percent of the residents in 11746 has some form of health insurance. 29.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.15 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 11746 would have to travel an average of 4.53 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 53,944 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 11746, Huntington Station, New York.

## The Breast Cancer Score: A Deep Dive into Community Health in Huntington Station (11746)

The air in Huntington Station, Long Island, hums with a particular energy. It's a blend of the rhythmic pulse of the Long Island Rail Road, the sizzle of tacos from a food truck parked on New York Avenue, and the laughter of kids kicking a soccer ball in a park. This vibrant tapestry, however, also weaves in threads of concern, particularly when we consider the health of the women who call this community home. This article isn't just about breast cancer; it's about the *Breast Cancer Score* – a holistic measure of community health, reflecting the factors that either bolster or undermine a woman's chances of living a long, healthy life, free from this devastating disease. We're diving deep into the heart of Huntington Station (ZIP Code 11746), exploring its demographics, its hidden gems, and the crucial elements that contribute to its overall well-being.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Before we can understand the health landscape, we need to understand the people. Huntington Station, like many communities, is a mosaic. The 2020 Census paints a picture of a diverse population, with a significant Hispanic/Latino presence, alongside established Black and White communities. This rich cultural mix is a strength, bringing a kaleidoscope of traditions, cuisines, and perspectives. But it also presents unique challenges.

Imagine Maria, a single mother working two jobs to provide for her children. She's constantly on the go, juggling childcare, work, and the relentless demands of daily life. Access to healthy food, affordable healthcare, and time for self-care can feel like luxuries. Then there’s Sarah, a recent transplant, drawn to the area's affordability and proximity to New York City. She's eager to build a life here, but navigating the local healthcare system and finding her place in the community can be daunting. And there's Evelyn, a long-time resident, deeply rooted in the community, but worried about the changes she sees and the impact on her neighbors.

These are just glimpses, but they highlight the complex reality of Huntington Station. Understanding these lived experiences is crucial to understanding the Breast Cancer Score.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Meets Connection**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is more than just aesthetics; it's the intangible feeling that shapes daily life. In Huntington Station, that vibe is a mix of grit and grace, a blend of urban energy and suburban charm.

Picture the scene: a Saturday morning at the Huntington Station Farmers Market. The air is thick with the aroma of fresh-baked bread, the vibrant colors of locally grown produce, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers. This isn't just a place to buy groceries; it's a social hub, a place where neighbors connect, share stories, and build community. This sense of connection is a vital component of the Breast Cancer Score. Strong social networks can provide crucial support during times of stress, encourage healthy behaviors, and facilitate access to information and resources.

Then there's the vibrant energy of New York Avenue, the main artery of the community. The shops, restaurants, and businesses reflect the area's diversity, offering everything from authentic Latin American cuisine to bustling delis. This commercial activity creates jobs and opportunities, but it also presents challenges. The density of businesses, the traffic, and the potential for exposure to environmental pollutants are factors that need careful consideration when evaluating the Breast Cancer Score.

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

Housing in Huntington Station is as varied as its population. From charming older homes with character to more modern apartment complexes, the housing stock offers a range of options. Affordability, however, is a significant concern. The cost of housing can impact a family's financial stability, which in turn can affect access to healthcare, healthy food, and other essential resources.

Consider the family living in a small apartment, struggling to make ends meet. They may have limited access to green spaces for exercise or healthy food options. Contrast this with a family living in a larger home with a yard, who may have more opportunities for physical activity and access to fresh produce. This disparity in living conditions highlights the importance of addressing housing affordability and ensuring equitable access to resources.

The proximity of homes to potential environmental hazards, such as industrial sites or heavily trafficked roads, is also a factor. Exposure to pollutants can increase the risk of various health problems, including breast cancer.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Space and Vitality**

Fortunately, Huntington Station boasts pockets of green space, offering residents opportunities to connect with nature and engage in physical activity.

Heckscher Park, a sprawling green oasis, provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Imagine women walking their dogs along the winding paths, children playing on the playground, and families picnicking under the shade of towering trees. This access to green space is critical. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of breast cancer prevention, and parks provide a safe and accessible environment for exercise.

The nearby Huntington Crescent Club, with its pool and tennis courts, offers another avenue for recreation and social interaction. These facilities, however, are not always accessible to all residents, underscoring the need for equitable access to recreational opportunities.

The Long Island Sound, just a short drive away, offers the possibility of boating, swimming, and enjoying the beauty of the coastline. But access to the Sound, and the ability to enjoy these activities, can be limited by transportation costs and time constraints.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope and Healing**

The Breast Cancer Score isn't just about the absence of disease; it's about the presence of resources that promote health and well-being. Huntington Station is home to several local wellness programs that are making a difference.

The Huntington Hospital, a cornerstone of the community, offers comprehensive breast cancer screening and treatment services. Their commitment to early detection and patient support is crucial.

Local community centers, such as the Huntington Youth Bureau, often host health education workshops and offer resources for women's health. These programs provide vital information and support to residents.

Imagine a woman attending a free mammogram screening at the Huntington Hospital, a program made possible by local fundraising efforts. Or picture a group of women participating in a yoga class at the local community center, finding solace and strength in each other's company. These are the seeds of hope, the building blocks of a healthier community.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the Breast Cancer Score for Huntington Station (11746)? It's a complex calculation, a reflection of the interplay between demographics, neighborhood vibe, housing, outdoor recreation, and local wellness programs. It's not a simple number; it's a story.

Based on the factors we've discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for Huntington Station is a mixed bag. The community's diversity is a strength, but disparities in access to healthcare, healthy food, and affordable housing are significant challenges. The vibrant neighborhood vibe and the presence of local wellness programs offer hope, but the need for more robust support systems and equitable access to resources is clear.

This isn't a judgment; it's a call to action. It's a call for:

* **Increased access to affordable healthcare, including preventative screenings and early detection programs.** This means ensuring that all women, regardless of their income or immigration status, can access the care they need.
* **Investment in affordable housing and community development.** This will help to address the root causes of health disparities and create a more equitable community.
* **Expansion of local wellness programs and initiatives.** This includes supporting existing programs and developing new ones that address the specific needs of the community.
* **Promotion of healthy lifestyles through education and access to resources.** This means encouraging physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management techniques.
* **Advocacy for environmental justice.** This means working to reduce exposure to environmental pollutants and creating a healthier environment for all residents.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just about preventing breast cancer; it's about building a healthier, more vibrant community for everyone. It's about ensuring that Maria, Sarah, Evelyn, and all the women of Huntington Station have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. It's about recognizing the inherent value of every life and working together to create a future where everyone thrives. The work is ongoing, the challenges are real, but the potential for positive change is immense. The energy of Huntington Station, its resilience, and its commitment to community are the driving forces that will shape its future. The Breast Cancer Score is a reminder of the work that remains, and the promise of a healthier tomorrow.