17322, Felton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.31 percent of the residents in 17322 has some form of health insurance. 31.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.48 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17322 would have to travel an average of 22.12 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Hanover. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,606 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania.

## The Felton Fight: Unveiling the Breast Cancer Score in 17322

The air in Felton, Pennsylvania, hangs thick with the scent of freshly tilled earth, a whisper of the Susquehanna River, and the quiet hum of a community built on generations of shared history. It’s a place where porch swings creak in the afternoon sun, where kids still chase fireflies in the twilight, and where the echoes of laughter and the rustle of leaves weave a tapestry of small-town life. But beneath this idyllic surface, a silent battle rages. This isn't a war fought with guns and bombs, but with information, awareness, and the unwavering spirit of a community determined to protect its own. We're talking about breast cancer, and in this article, we're going to delve deep into the community health landscape of ZIP Code 17322, exploring its strengths, its vulnerabilities, and what it all means for the women who call Felton home.

**The Score: A Complex Equation**

There's no single, definitive "Breast Cancer Score" in the way we might think of a credit rating. Instead, we're building a comprehensive picture, a mosaic pieced together from various factors that influence breast cancer risk and, crucially, the community's ability to fight back. We'll consider everything from demographics to access to healthcare, from lifestyle choices to the very fabric of Felton's neighborhood vibe.

**Demographic Echoes: Unpacking the Population Puzzle**

ZIP Code 17322 is a microcosm of rural America, a tapestry woven with threads of diverse backgrounds and experiences. Understanding the demographics is the first step in understanding the health challenges. Let's start with the numbers.

* **Population:** Felton and its surrounding areas boast a population of around 5,000 residents. This relatively small size fosters a strong sense of community, where neighbors know neighbors, and support systems are often deeply rooted.
* **Age Distribution:** A significant portion of the population falls within the age range most susceptible to breast cancer – the 40s, 50s, and beyond. This demographic reality underscores the urgency of proactive health measures.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** The economic landscape of Felton is a mix of working-class families, retirees, and a growing number of young professionals seeking a slower pace of life. Income levels can influence access to healthcare, healthy food options, and the ability to prioritize preventative care.
* **Racial and Ethnic Diversity:** Felton is predominantly white, but the presence of a smaller, diverse population enriches the community and adds another layer of complexity to the health equation. Understanding the specific health needs of each group is crucial for targeted interventions.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: More Than Just Bricks and Mortar**

The atmosphere of a community can profoundly impact its health. Felton's neighborhood vibe is a blend of tranquility and activity, a balance that influences residents' well-being.

Imagine this: The aroma of freshly baked bread wafts from the local bakery, a beacon of warmth and community. The farmers market, a vibrant hub of local produce and friendly chatter, offers a direct connection to fresh, healthy food. Children’s laughter echoes from the community park, where families gather for picnics and play. These are the ingredients of a healthy community, but there are also subtle challenges.

* **Social Connections:** Strong social networks are vital. Regular gatherings, community events, and volunteer opportunities can reduce stress and promote a sense of belonging, which is known to improve overall health.
* **Access to Resources:** The availability of essential services, such as grocery stores with healthy food options, pharmacies, and reliable transportation, can significantly impact residents' ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
* **Environmental Factors:** The beauty of the surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and lush forests, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, environmental hazards, such as potential exposure to pollutants or contaminated water sources, must also be considered.

**Places to Live: Where We Lay Our Heads, Where We Build Our Lives**

The types of housing and the overall living environment play a significant role in community health. Felton offers a mix of housing options, each with its own implications for health and well-being.

* **Single-Family Homes:** The prevalence of single-family homes provides a sense of stability and privacy, but it can also lead to social isolation if residents aren't actively engaged in community activities.
* **Apartment Complexes:** The presence of apartment complexes can offer more affordable housing options, but they may also be associated with higher population density and potentially limited access to green spaces.
* **Proximity to Amenities:** The location of homes relative to essential amenities, such as grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and parks, can influence residents' ability to make healthy choices.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Felton: The Building Blocks of Prevention**

A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of breast cancer prevention and overall well-being. Felton's residents have opportunities to embrace healthy habits, but challenges also exist.

* **Diet and Nutrition:** The availability of fresh, locally sourced produce from the farmers market is a major asset. However, access to affordable, healthy food options for all residents is critical.
* **Physical Activity:** The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and walking. The community park offers a space for organized sports and informal exercise.
* **Stress Management:** The slower pace of life in Felton can be a significant stress reliever. However, the pressures of daily life can still take their toll. Access to mental health services and stress-reduction programs is essential.
* **Alcohol and Tobacco Use:** Reducing alcohol consumption and eliminating tobacco use are crucial for breast cancer prevention. Community education and support programs can play a vital role in promoting healthy choices.

**Local Wellness Programs: Pillars of Support**

Felton benefits from a network of local wellness programs and resources that are crucial in the fight against breast cancer.

* **Healthcare Providers:** The presence of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, is essential for early detection and treatment.
* **Breast Cancer Screening:** Access to mammograms and other screening services is paramount. Community outreach programs can help ensure that all women have access to these vital services.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups provide a safe space for women affected by breast cancer to share their experiences, offer mutual support, and access valuable information.
* **Educational Initiatives:** Community education programs can raise awareness about breast cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air, Building Strength**

Felton's proximity to nature offers a unique advantage for promoting health and well-being.

Imagine this: A group of friends hikes the trails of nearby Codorus State Park, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs. Families gather for picnics at the community park, children laughing as they chase each other through the leaves. These outdoor activities not only provide physical exercise but also reduce stress and promote a sense of connection with nature.

**The Challenges: Navigating the Obstacles**

While Felton has many strengths, challenges remain.

* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including screening services, is crucial.
* **Transportation:** Limited transportation options can be a barrier to accessing healthcare and other essential services, particularly for those without personal vehicles.
* **Health Literacy:** Improving health literacy, or the ability to understand and use health information, can empower residents to make informed decisions about their health.
* **Socioeconomic Disparities:** Addressing socioeconomic disparities, such as income inequality and food insecurity, is essential for creating a truly healthy community.

**The Path Forward: Building a Stronger Community**

The "Breast Cancer Score" in 17322 isn't a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the community's ongoing efforts to promote health and well-being. By understanding the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the lifestyle choices, and the available resources, we can identify areas for improvement and build a stronger community.

* **Strengthening Partnerships:** Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents is essential.
* **Expanding Access:** Increasing access to healthcare, healthy food options, and transportation services is paramount.
* **Promoting Education:** Raising awareness about breast cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection is crucial.
* **Fostering Community:** Building a strong sense of community, where neighbors support neighbors, can reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

**The Felton Fight: A Testament to Resilience**

The women of Felton, like the women of communities across the nation, are not passive recipients of their fate. They are active participants in their own health journeys, and they are surrounded by a community that cares. By working together, by sharing information, and by embracing the spirit of resilience that defines this small town, Felton can continue to improve its "Breast Cancer Score" and create a healthier, brighter future for all its residents. The fight continues, but in Felton, the spirit of hope and determination burns bright. The air may be filled with the scent of earth and river, but it's also charged with the energy of a community ready to face any challenge, together.