38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.73 percent of the residents in 38552 has some form of health insurance. 41.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.71 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 38552 would have to travel an average of 8.22 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Riverview Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 272 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee.

## Chestnut Mound, TN: A Breast Cancer Score and the Heart of Community Health (ZIP Code 38552)

The air in Chestnut Mound, Tennessee, hangs thick with the scent of honeysuckle and the promise of a long summer. Nestled in the rolling hills of Jackson County, this small community (ZIP Code 38552) hums with a quiet energy, a blend of rural charm and a deep-rooted connection to the land. But beneath the surface of this idyllic landscape lies a critical question: How healthy is Chestnut Mound? And more specifically, what is the breast cancer score for this community, and what factors influence it?

This isn't just about numbers; it's about the people, the places, and the choices that shape their lives. It’s about understanding the tapestry of Chestnut Mound and identifying opportunities to weave a healthier future, one thread at a time.

**Understanding the Score: A Complex Equation**

A “breast cancer score” isn't a single, easily quantifiable metric. Instead, it's a composite of various factors, a mosaic reflecting the community's overall health profile. We'll consider elements that contribute to breast cancer risk and the community's capacity to mitigate those risks. These include:

* **Demographics:** Age, race, socioeconomic status, and family history all play a role.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and screening services like mammograms.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Diet, exercise, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption.
* **Environmental Factors:** Exposure to pollutants, access to green spaces, and water quality.
* **Community Resources:** Availability of wellness programs, support groups, and educational initiatives.

**Chestnut Mound's Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Chestnut Mound, like many rural communities, has a unique demographic profile. The population is relatively small, with a close-knit feel. The median age tends to be higher than the national average, reflecting a population that values roots and longevity. The community is predominantly white, with a strong sense of heritage and family ties.

Socioeconomic factors are crucial. While precise income data for Chestnut Mound can fluctuate, it's essential to acknowledge that rural areas often face economic challenges. Lower incomes can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing, all of which can indirectly affect breast cancer risk.

**A Drive Down the Winding Roads: Access to Healthcare**

Imagine the sun glinting off the hood of your pickup truck as you navigate the winding roads that connect Chestnut Mound to the wider world. Access to healthcare is a critical factor. While Chestnut Mound may not have a hospital within its immediate borders, the proximity to larger towns like Cookeville and Carthage, which offer hospitals and specialist care, is a crucial advantage.

However, distance isn't the only barrier. Transportation can be a challenge for some residents, particularly the elderly or those without reliable vehicles. The availability of primary care physicians and the frequency of mobile mammography units are also vital considerations. Initiatives to increase awareness about breast cancer screening and provide assistance with transportation could significantly improve the community's health outcomes.

**The Kitchen Table Conversation: Lifestyle Choices**

The heart of Chestnut Mound beats in its homes, where families gather around kitchen tables, sharing meals and stories. Lifestyle choices, often shaped by tradition and circumstance, play a significant role in breast cancer risk.

Consider the food. Fresh produce from local gardens and farmers' markets, like the one that occasionally pops up in the town square, is a treasure. But access to affordable, healthy food can sometimes be limited, potentially leading to a reliance on processed foods. Promoting healthy eating habits, perhaps through community gardens or cooking classes focused on nutritious, budget-friendly meals, could make a difference.

Physical activity is another key element. The rolling hills and open spaces of Chestnut Mound offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Walking, hiking, and gardening are natural forms of exercise. However, the community could benefit from initiatives that encourage physical activity, such as organized walking groups or the development of accessible trails.

Tobacco use, a known risk factor, needs attention. Encouraging smoking cessation programs and providing support for those seeking to quit is crucial. Similarly, moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered acceptable, but awareness of the risks associated with excessive drinking is essential.

**Breathing Easy: Environmental Considerations**

The air in Chestnut Mound is often crisp and clean, a testament to its rural setting. However, environmental factors can still impact health. Water quality is a paramount concern. Ensuring safe and clean drinking water is a fundamental responsibility of the community. Regular testing and maintenance of water systems are essential.

Exposure to environmental pollutants, though potentially less prevalent than in urban areas, still needs consideration. The community should be vigilant about potential sources of pollution and advocate for responsible environmental practices.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Resources and Support**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a critical ingredient in community health. It's about the sense of connection, support, and shared responsibility that binds residents together.

Chestnut Mound has a strong foundation of community spirit. Local churches, volunteer fire departments, and civic organizations often play a vital role in providing support and resources. Strengthening these existing networks and fostering collaboration is key.

Consider the potential for local wellness programs. Could the community partner with healthcare providers to offer free or low-cost health screenings? Could they organize educational workshops on breast cancer awareness and prevention? Could they establish a support group for survivors and their families?

**Places to Live: Where Community Thrives**

The homes of Chestnut Mound are as diverse as the people who live there. From cozy farmhouses to well-maintained single-family dwellings, the housing stock reflects the community's history and character.

The availability of affordable and safe housing is a crucial factor in community health. Ensuring that residents have access to adequate housing is essential for their well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Beauty of the Land**

Chestnut Mound is blessed with natural beauty. The rolling hills, the forests, and the nearby waterways offer opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Imagine a family hiking along a well-maintained trail, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the scenery. This is the essence of outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

The community could explore ways to enhance access to outdoor recreation. This might involve developing new trails, creating parks, or organizing community events that encourage people to get outside and enjoy the natural world.

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

So, what is the breast cancer score for Chestnut Mound? It's not a simple answer. It's a complex equation influenced by demographics, access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and community resources.

The score is not just a number; it's a call to action. It's a call to:

* **Increase awareness:** Educate residents about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and available resources.
* **Improve access to healthcare:** Advocate for mobile mammography units, transportation assistance, and affordable healthcare options.
* **Promote healthy lifestyles:** Encourage healthy eating habits, physical activity, and smoking cessation.
* **Strengthen community support:** Foster collaboration between local organizations and healthcare providers.
* **Embrace the beauty of the land:** Enhance access to outdoor recreation and promote a connection with nature.

Chestnut Mound has the potential to thrive. By addressing the factors that influence the breast cancer score, the community can build a healthier, more resilient future. It's about weaving a stronger tapestry, one thread of community health at a time. The scent of honeysuckle will continue to fill the air, but now, it will be accompanied by the scent of progress, the promise of a healthier tomorrow for all.