16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.53 percent of the residents in 16140 has some form of health insurance. 21.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 94.55 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 16140 would have to travel an average of 9.45 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Sharon Regional Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,247 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## The Breast Cancer Score: Decoding Community Health in 16140, New Bedford, PA

The crisp autumn air bites at your cheeks as you stroll past the meticulously kept lawns of Oakwood Drive in New Bedford, Pennsylvania. Sunlight glints off the polished chrome of a classic car parked in a driveway. This is 16140, a ZIP code that whispers of small-town charm, a place where neighbors still wave from their porches and the aroma of freshly baked apple pie drifts from open windows. But beneath the idyllic surface, a complex tapestry of community health exists, a story we can begin to understand through a "Breast Cancer Score."

Why breast cancer? Because it's a disease that disproportionately affects women, reflecting a multitude of factors tied to community health: access to healthcare, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, and socioeconomic disparities. By examining these interwoven threads within 16140, we can begin to understand the overall health of the community, its strengths, and the areas that need attention.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of the Community**

Before we delve into the specifics, let's paint a picture of the people who call 16140 home. This ZIP code is predominantly white, with a significant population of older adults. Family structures tend to be traditional, with a strong emphasis on community and intergenerational support. The median household income is a comfortable, but not extravagant, figure, suggesting a mix of working-class families and established homeowners.

The population density is relatively low, meaning there's ample space for homes, yards, and, importantly, outdoor recreation. This is a key factor in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Thrives**

Imagine yourself at the annual New Bedford Community Days. The air crackles with excitement. Children chase each other through the park, their laughter echoing across the green expanse. Vendors hawk everything from homemade crafts to delicious food. The scent of grilling burgers mingles with the sweet aroma of cotton candy. This is the heart of 16140, where community bonds are forged and strengthened.

The presence of well-maintained parks, like the sprawling Bedford Park, is crucial. These green spaces offer opportunities for exercise, social interaction, and stress reduction – all vital components of a healthy lifestyle and, by extension, potentially impacting breast cancer risk factors. Picture a brisk walk along the winding paths, the rustling leaves providing a natural soundtrack. Families picnicking under the shade of ancient trees. These are the moments that contribute to a sense of well-being and foster a healthy community.

**Places to Live: From Cozy Bungalows to Sprawling Estates**

The housing landscape in 16140 is diverse, offering a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. You'll find charming bungalows with well-manicured lawns, perfect for young families. There are also larger, more established homes, often with generous gardens, that appeal to those seeking more space and privacy.

The availability of affordable housing is a critical factor in community health. Stable housing reduces stress, provides a sense of security, and allows residents to focus on their overall well-being. Conversely, housing insecurity can lead to chronic stress, poor nutrition, and limited access to healthcare, all of which can negatively impact health outcomes.

**Healthy Lifestyle in New Bedford: The Building Blocks of Wellness**

A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of breast cancer prevention. In 16140, the opportunities for promoting a healthy lifestyle are plentiful.

**Outdoor Recreation:** The abundance of green spaces is a major asset. Beyond Bedford Park, consider the potential for walking and biking trails, connecting the community and encouraging physical activity. Imagine a network of safe, well-lit paths weaving through the neighborhoods, encouraging residents to ditch the car and embrace the outdoors.

**Nutrition:** The presence of local farmers markets and community gardens can significantly impact dietary habits. Fresh, locally sourced produce provides essential nutrients and promotes healthy eating habits. Imagine a bustling farmers market on a Saturday morning, filled with the vibrant colors and aromas of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

**Stress Management:** The slower pace of life in 16140 can be a significant advantage in reducing stress levels. However, it's crucial to provide resources for stress management, such as yoga classes, meditation workshops, and access to mental health services.

**Access to Healthcare: A Critical Piece of the Puzzle**

The availability and accessibility of quality healthcare are paramount. This includes:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Are there enough primary care physicians in the area to meet the needs of the population? Are they accepting new patients?
* **Specialist Care:** Access to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, is crucial for early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
* **Screening Services:** Easy access to mammograms and other screening services is vital for early detection. Are there mobile mammography units that visit the community? Are there programs to help those who can't afford screening?
* **Insurance Coverage:** The percentage of the population with health insurance plays a significant role. Uninsured individuals are less likely to seek preventative care and are often diagnosed at later stages of the disease.

**Local Wellness Programs: Strengthening the Community's Defenses**

The presence of local wellness programs can significantly impact the community's health. Consider these possibilities:

* **Health Education Workshops:** Offering workshops on breast cancer awareness, healthy eating, and exercise can empower residents to take control of their health.
* **Support Groups:** Creating support groups for breast cancer survivors and their families can provide emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Community Outreach:** Partnering with local organizations, such as churches and community centers, to provide health screenings and educational materials.
* **Fitness Classes:** Offering affordable fitness classes, such as Zumba or yoga, can encourage physical activity and promote a healthy lifestyle.

**The Environmental Factor: A Silent Influence**

Environmental factors can also play a role in breast cancer risk. Consider the following:

* **Air Quality:** Is the air quality in 16140 good? Air pollution can contribute to various health problems.
* **Water Quality:** Is the water supply safe and free of contaminants?
* **Exposure to Chemicals:** Are there any potential environmental hazards in the area, such as industrial sites or agricultural runoff?

**Assessing the Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Approach**

Calculating a true "Breast Cancer Score" would require detailed data analysis, looking at factors such as:

* **Mammography Screening Rates:** The percentage of women over 40 who regularly undergo mammograms.
* **Breast Cancer Incidence Rates:** The number of new breast cancer cases diagnosed per year.
* **Mortality Rates:** The number of deaths from breast cancer.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and screening services.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** The prevalence of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, education levels, and access to affordable housing.

By analyzing these factors, we can begin to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the community's health.

**A Vision for the Future: Building a Healthier 16140**

Imagine a future where 16140 is a beacon of community health. Picture:

* **Increased Screening Rates:** A community-wide effort to promote mammography screenings, ensuring that all women have access to this life-saving service.
* **Thriving Wellness Programs:** A network of local wellness programs, offering a variety of activities and resources to promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Strong Community Bonds:** A community where neighbors support each other, where people feel connected and empowered to take care of their health.
* **Safe and Accessible Outdoor Spaces:** Well-maintained parks, walking trails, and bike paths, encouraging physical activity and outdoor recreation.
* **A Culture of Prevention:** A community where preventative care is prioritized, where early detection is the norm, and where breast cancer is no longer a silent threat.

The journey to a healthier 16140 is a collaborative effort. It requires the involvement of residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. By working together, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to its well-being. It's a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a healthier future for 16140. As you walk the streets of New Bedford, remember that every step you take, every choice you make, contributes to the overall health of this vibrant community. The future of 16140 is in our hands.