Breast Cancer Score

18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 18512 has some form of health insurance. 37.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.82 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 18512 would have to travel an average of 1.75 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,014 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Health Scores in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Breast Cancer Score 59
People Score 26
Provider Score 87
Hospital Score 14
Travel Score 78

Insurance Types

18512 Scranton Pennsylvania
Employer Insurance 60.39 49.95 58.71
Direct Purchase Insurance 16.90 13.47 14.80
Medicare 22.06 19.47 19.53
Medicaid 18.09 28.17 19.77
TRICARE 1.87 1.21 1.43
VA 52.34 50.81 51.92

Percent Insured in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

18512 Scranton Pennsylvania
Under 19 98.52 96.62 95.41
Adults (19-64 years) 92.93 91.74 92.43
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 99.55 99.56

People Score Review of 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania

## 18512: Scranton's Fight – A Breast Cancer Scorecard for Community Health

The air in Scranton, Pennsylvania, hangs thick with the scent of history, a blend of coal dust ghosts and the resilient spirit of a city that refuses to be defined by its past. Here, in the heart of Lackawanna County, ZIP code 18512 – encompassing a vibrant tapestry of neighborhoods like Green Ridge, West Scranton, and the University of Scranton area – is where we'll unpack the complex story of community health, focusing on the crucial lens of breast cancer risk and prevention. This isn’t just about numbers; it's about the lived experience of the people who call 18512 home. It's about their choices, their challenges, and the resources available to them in their fight for well-being.

We're not just talking statistics; we're talking about lives.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Let's paint a picture. 18512 is a diverse mosaic. You've got families who've called this place home for generations, their roots intertwined with the very soil. You have a growing student population, drawn to the city's educational institutions, injecting youthful energy and fresh perspectives. Then there's a mix of young professionals, retirees, and a significant population of working-class families.

The median age hovers around the late 30s, suggesting a community in a dynamic phase of life – raising families, building careers, and navigating the complexities of modern living. The racial makeup is predominantly white, but a growing Hispanic/Latino population adds rich cultural diversity to the mix, bringing with it unique health needs and perspectives.

This demographic diversity is a strength, but it also presents challenges. Access to healthcare, health literacy, and cultural sensitivity in healthcare provision are crucial considerations. Understanding these nuances is the first step in building a robust community health strategy.

**The Breast Cancer Scorecard: A Snapshot of Risk**

We can't provide specific breast cancer incidence rates for 18512 due to data privacy concerns. However, we can use national and regional data to understand potential risk factors. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 8 women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. This serves as a baseline.

Here's where we start to personalize the scorecard:

* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty, limited access to quality healthcare, and lack of health insurance are all significant risk factors. In 18512, pockets of economic disparity exist. Some neighborhoods boast beautiful, well-maintained homes, while others struggle with blight and economic hardship. This disparity can translate to unequal access to preventative care, early detection screenings, and timely treatment.
* **Lifestyle Choices:** Diet, exercise, and alcohol consumption play a crucial role. Scranton, like many cities, faces challenges related to obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Access to fresh, affordable produce can be limited in some areas, and opportunities for regular physical activity may be constrained by factors like lack of safe parks or walkable streets. Alcohol consumption, a known risk factor, needs to be considered within the context of the community's social norms and cultural practices.
* **Environmental Factors:** Exposure to environmental toxins, while difficult to quantify precisely, can contribute to breast cancer risk. Scranton's industrial past leaves a legacy of potential environmental hazards. While remediation efforts have been ongoing, residents may still be exposed to residual contaminants.
* **Access to Healthcare:** This is paramount. Does 18512 have enough primary care physicians, oncologists, and radiologists? Are mammography screening services readily available and affordable? Are there language barriers or cultural sensitivities that need to be addressed to ensure that all women, regardless of their background, receive the care they need?
* **Family History:** A family history of breast cancer significantly increases risk. Understanding family history and promoting genetic counseling are crucial components of preventative care.

**Places to Live: A Microcosm of Health**

Let's take a virtual stroll through 18512, observing how neighborhood characteristics influence community health:

* **Green Ridge:** Imagine tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a palpable sense of community. This area often boasts higher socioeconomic status, which can translate to better access to healthcare, healthier food options, and more opportunities for exercise. However, even in affluent neighborhoods, awareness and proactive health behaviors are not guaranteed.
* **West Scranton:** This area has a strong working-class identity. Community bonds are tight, and there's a sense of pride in the neighborhood. Access to healthcare might be more of a challenge, and the availability of healthy food options could be limited. This is where community-based initiatives to promote healthy eating and exercise become particularly vital.
* **University of Scranton Area:** This area is a hub of activity, with a youthful energy. The university provides access to health services and resources for students. However, the transient nature of the student population means that health education and preventative care must be consistently reinforced.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Pulse on Wellness**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood significantly impacts health. Does the community feel safe? Are there opportunities for social connection? Are there spaces for recreation and relaxation?

* **Community gardens:** These are more than just places to grow food; they are spaces for social interaction, education, and access to fresh produce.
* **Farmers markets:** Providing access to local, healthy food options.
* **Parks and recreation:** Parks offer opportunities for exercise, stress reduction, and connecting with nature.
* **Walkability:** Walkable neighborhoods encourage physical activity and reduce reliance on cars.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Scranton isn't just about the past; it's about building a healthier future. Several local initiatives are making a difference:

* **The Geisinger Health System:** This major healthcare provider offers a range of services, including cancer screenings, treatment, and support groups. They also have a strong focus on preventative care and community outreach.
* **Lackawanna County Health Department:** They play a crucial role in public health, providing resources, education, and programs to address community health needs.
* **Local YMCA/YWCA:** These organizations offer fitness classes, wellness programs, and opportunities for social connection, promoting physical and mental well-being.
* **Community-based organizations:** These organizations are often the boots on the ground, providing targeted services to specific populations, such as low-income families or underserved communities. They might offer free mammograms, health education workshops, or support groups for cancer survivors.

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

Scranton's natural beauty provides a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life.

* **Nay Aug Park:** This sprawling park offers walking trails, a swimming pool, a zoo, and a botanical garden, providing opportunities for exercise, recreation, and connection with nature.
* **Lackawanna River Heritage Trail:** This scenic trail follows the Lackawanna River, offering a safe and accessible space for walking, running, and cycling.
* **Hiking and biking trails in the surrounding hills:** These provide more challenging outdoor adventures, promoting physical fitness and mental well-being.

**The Call to Action: Building a Healthier 18512**

This "Breast Cancer Scorecard" isn't meant to be a judgment; it's a call to action. It's a starting point for a conversation about how we can collectively improve the health of 18512.

Here's what needs to happen:

* **Increased awareness:** Educating the community about breast cancer risk factors, early detection, and the importance of preventative care.
* **Improved access to healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including mammograms and other screenings.
* **Support for local wellness programs:** Investing in and expanding programs that promote healthy eating, physical activity, and stress reduction.
* **Community collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents.
* **Advocacy:** Supporting policies that promote community health, such as access to affordable healthcare, healthy food initiatives, and safe outdoor spaces.

The fight against breast cancer and for overall community health is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires sustained effort, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the well-being of every resident of 18512. By understanding the challenges, celebrating the strengths, and working together, Scranton can build a healthier, more vibrant future for generations to come. The coal dust may settle, but the spirit of resilience in 18512 will continue to rise, fueled by the unwavering commitment to community health.

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