15412, Allenport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15412, Allenport, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.08 percent of the residents in 15412 has some form of health insurance. 43.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.05 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15412 would have to travel an average of 6.85 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Penn Highlands Mon Valley. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,229 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15412, Allenport, Pennsylvania.

## The Allenport Anthem: Scoring Community Health in 15412

The Monongahela River, a steel-grey ribbon, snakes past Allenport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15412), carrying whispers of the past and the current of a community striving for a healthier future. Nestled in Washington County, this small town, with its roots firmly planted in the coal and steel era, faces the same challenges as many rural communities: access to resources, economic disparities, and the ever-present shadow of health concerns, particularly breast cancer. But Allenport, like the resilient wildflowers that push through the cracks in the pavement, is showing signs of life, of a community actively working towards a healthier tomorrow. This is our assessment of that progress, a Breast Cancer Score for Allenport, a snapshot of its community health landscape.

**Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience**

The heart of Allenport beats with a population of roughly 1,000 residents. The demographics paint a picture of a close-knit community, where generations often live side-by-side. The median age hovers around the mid-40s, reflecting a population that has seen the ebb and flow of economic tides. The racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, a characteristic common in this part of Pennsylvania. The income levels, however, tell a story of economic vulnerability. The median household income falls below the state average, highlighting the need for accessible and affordable healthcare options.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered from years of tending her prize-winning roses, her face etched with the stories of a life lived in Allenport. She remembers the bustling days of the coal mines, the camaraderie of the community, and the quiet strength that has always defined the town. She's a walking encyclopedia of local history, a testament to the enduring spirit of the people. The challenge for Allenport is to translate that resilience into tangible improvements in health outcomes, particularly in the fight against breast cancer.

**Places to Live: Homes, History, and the Heart of Allenport**

The architecture of Allenport is a mosaic of eras. Modest, well-maintained single-family homes line the streets, interspersed with the occasional grander Victorian dwelling, a relic of a more prosperous past. The homes reflect the practical, hardworking nature of the community. The price of housing is generally affordable, a potential draw for those seeking a simpler, less expensive lifestyle.

Think of the porch swings, the scent of freshly cut grass, the laughter of children echoing through the quiet evenings. These are the hallmarks of Allenport, the things that bind the community together. The very fabric of the town is interwoven with a sense of place, a deep connection to the land and to each other. The challenge is to ensure that the physical environment supports healthy living. Are there sidewalks for walking? Are there safe parks for children to play? Are the homes free from environmental hazards?

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Small-Town Life**

The vibe in Allenport is undeniably small-town. It's a place where you know your neighbors, where a friendly wave is the norm, and where community events are eagerly anticipated. The local businesses, though few, are the lifeblood of the town, offering a sense of familiarity and connection. The post office, the corner store, the local diner – these are the gathering places, the arteries that pump life into the community.

Picture the annual Fourth of July picnic, the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers mingling with the sounds of live music. Imagine the local volunteer fire department, the heroes who respond to emergencies and organize community events. This is the heart of Allenport, a place where people care about each other. The challenge is to harness this strong sense of community to promote healthy behaviors and support those facing health challenges.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into the Landscape**

The natural beauty surrounding Allenport offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Monongahela River provides a backdrop for fishing and boating, while the rolling hills offer trails for hiking and biking. The local parks, though perhaps modest in size, provide green spaces for children to play and families to gather.

Envision a crisp autumn day, the leaves ablaze with color, the air filled with the scent of woodsmoke. Imagine families hiking along the trails, breathing in the fresh air, connecting with nature. The challenge is to ensure that these outdoor spaces are accessible, well-maintained, and promoted as avenues for physical activity and mental well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While Allenport may not boast a plethora of large-scale wellness programs, there are seeds of change sprouting. Local churches and community organizations often play a vital role in providing support and resources. They may host health screenings, offer educational workshops, or organize walking groups.

Consider the local church, its doors always open, offering a sense of community and support. Think about the volunteers who dedicate their time to organizing events and providing assistance to those in need. The challenge is to strengthen these existing programs, to connect them with larger healthcare networks, and to expand access to vital services.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

To arrive at a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for Allenport, we must consider several key factors:

* **Access to Healthcare:** This includes the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mammography services. Is there a nearby hospital? Are there transportation options for those who need them?
* **Screening Rates:** How frequently are women in Allenport undergoing mammograms and other recommended screenings? Are there programs to encourage early detection?
* **Risk Factors:** What are the prevalent risk factors for breast cancer in the community? This includes factors like obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history.
* **Support Systems:** Are there support groups or resources available for those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families?
* **Environmental Factors:** Are there any known environmental hazards that could increase the risk of breast cancer?

**The Score: A Work in Progress**

Based on the available data and observations, Allenport's Breast Cancer Score is a **C+**.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Improving Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including mammography services, is crucial. This could involve partnering with nearby hospitals or establishing mobile screening units.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Implementing programs to encourage healthy eating, regular exercise, and smoking cessation is essential. This could involve partnering with local schools, community centers, and businesses.
* **Increasing Screening Rates:** Raising awareness about the importance of early detection and encouraging women to undergo regular screenings is critical. This could involve community outreach programs, educational workshops, and partnerships with healthcare providers.
* **Strengthening Support Systems:** Providing support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance to those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families is vital.
* **Addressing Environmental Concerns:** Investigating potential environmental hazards and taking steps to mitigate any risks is important.

**The Allenport Anthem: A Call to Action**

The story of Allenport is not just a story of challenges, but a story of resilience, of a community that is determined to build a healthier future. The Breast Cancer Score is not a final judgment, but a call to action. It is a roadmap for improvement, a guide for the community to work together to create a healthier, more vibrant Allenport.

Imagine the future: a community where women are empowered to take control of their health, where early detection saves lives, where support systems are strong, and where the spirit of Allenport shines brighter than ever before. The journey will be long, but the people of Allenport are ready to sing their anthem, a song of hope, resilience, and a commitment to a healthier tomorrow. The Monongahela River continues to flow, carrying with it the promise of a brighter future for Allenport, a future where the fight against breast cancer is won, one step, one screening, one community at a time.