23898, Zuni, Virginia Breast Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23898, Zuni, Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.79 percent of the residents in 23898 has some form of health insurance. 28.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.35 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 23898 would have to travel an average of 11.00 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 238 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 23898, Zuni, Virginia.

## The Zuni Pulse: Decoding the Breast Cancer Score in 23898

The air in Zuni, Virginia, hangs thick with the scent of pine and the promise of a slow, deliberate life. You can almost taste the history here, the echoes of generations who’ve tilled the land, built the homes, and woven the fabric of this close-knit community. But beneath the surface of this idyllic setting, the health of its residents, and specifically their vulnerability to breast cancer, is a story waiting to be told. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the very pulse of Zuni, the rhythms of daily life, and the choices that shape its future.

This article dives deep into the breast cancer score in ZIP code 23898, exploring the factors that contribute to it, the resources available, and the vibrant community that's working to build a healthier tomorrow. We're not just looking at numbers; we're looking at the people behind them.

**The Score: A Snapshot of Risk**

The breast cancer score for any given area is a complex calculation, a tapestry woven from threads of demographics, environmental factors, access to healthcare, and lifestyle choices. While specific, publicly available scores for individual ZIP codes are often difficult to obtain due to privacy concerns and the complexity of the data, we can analyze the contributing factors and paint a picture of the potential risks and opportunities within 23898.

Let's begin with the **demographics**. Zuni is a small, rural community. The population is predominantly White, with a significant African American population. Understanding the racial and ethnic makeup is crucial because research indicates that breast cancer incidence and mortality rates can vary across different groups. The median age in Zuni is likely higher than the national average, as is common in rural areas, which is also a significant risk factor, as the likelihood of developing breast cancer increases with age.

The economic landscape is another key piece of the puzzle. The median household income in 23898 is likely lower than the national average, and the poverty rate may be higher. This can impact access to quality healthcare, including preventative screenings like mammograms, and access to nutritious food and safe environments for exercise. Financial constraints can create barriers to healthy lifestyle choices, increasing the risk.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Life**

Imagine the sun rising over the vast fields surrounding Zuni, painting the sky in hues of peach and gold. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of freshly turned earth and the distant hum of a tractor. This is the heart of Zuni, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the land.

The **neighborhood vibe** is a crucial element. Is it a community where neighbors look out for each other? Do people gather for potlucks, support each other through difficult times, and share information? A strong sense of community can be a powerful buffer against stress, a known risk factor for various health issues, including breast cancer.

The homes themselves, from the sturdy farmhouses with wraparound porches to the more modern dwellings, reflect the character of the people who live within them. Are the houses well-maintained? Are there green spaces, parks, and walking trails nearby? The availability of safe and accessible outdoor spaces is vital for promoting physical activity, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.

**Places to Live: Shaping the Environment**

Where you live significantly impacts your health. In Zuni, the presence of well-maintained homes and access to essential services are key.

* **Housing:** The quality of housing is a factor. Lead paint in older homes can pose health risks. The presence of mold or other environmental hazards can also contribute to health problems.
* **Proximity to Services:** Access to grocery stores with fresh produce, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities is critical. The distance to these services can impact dietary choices and access to medical care.
* **Environmental Factors:** The proximity to agricultural operations and any potential exposure to pesticides or other chemicals is a consideration. The quality of the local water supply is also a crucial factor.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Zuni: The Building Blocks of Well-being**

A **healthy lifestyle in Zuni** is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life. It's about the choices people make every day, from what they eat to how they spend their leisure time.

* **Diet:** The availability of fresh, locally sourced food is essential. Does Zuni have a farmer's market? Are there community gardens where residents can grow their own produce? Access to affordable, healthy food is a cornerstone of preventative health.
* **Physical Activity:** The opportunity to be active is crucial. Are there walking trails, parks, or recreational facilities? Does the community promote outdoor activities? Encouraging physical activity is a key factor in reducing breast cancer risk.
* **Smoking and Alcohol Consumption:** These are significant risk factors. Are there community programs to help people quit smoking? Is there a culture of responsible alcohol consumption?
* **Stress Management:** Rural life, while often idyllic, can also bring its own set of stressors. Are there resources available to help residents manage stress, such as support groups, counseling services, or mindfulness programs?

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope**

The presence of **local wellness programs** is a vital indicator of community health. These programs can provide education, support, and resources to help residents make healthy choices and access preventative care.

* **The Western Tidewater Health District:** This district, which serves Zuni, plays a critical role in providing public health services, including breast cancer screenings, health education, and disease prevention programs.
* **Local Healthcare Providers:** The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals who are accessible and affordable is crucial. Do they offer mammogram screenings? Do they provide education about breast cancer risk factors and prevention?
* **Community Organizations:** Churches, civic groups, and other organizations can play a vital role in promoting health and wellness. Do they host health fairs, offer support groups, or provide educational resources?
* **The YMCA or Community Centers:** These facilities often offer fitness classes, health education programs, and opportunities for social interaction, all of which contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

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

Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon in Zuni. The leaves are ablaze with color, and the air is filled with the scent of woodsmoke. People are out and about, enjoying the beauty of the season.

**Outdoor recreation** is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Does Zuni have parks, walking trails, or other outdoor spaces where residents can exercise and enjoy nature?

* **The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge:** While not directly in Zuni, this vast natural area is within a reasonable driving distance and offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
* **Local Parks and Recreation Areas:** Are there local parks or recreation areas where residents can walk, run, play sports, or simply relax and enjoy the outdoors?
* **Community Events:** Does Zuni host community events that promote physical activity, such as fun runs, bike rides, or outdoor festivals?

**The Road Ahead: Building a Healthier Future**

Understanding the breast cancer score in 23898 is not just about identifying risks; it's about empowering the community to take action. It's about recognizing the strengths of Zuni, celebrating its unique character, and building a healthier future for all its residents.

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including preventative screenings like mammograms, is paramount.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Supporting programs that encourage healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress management is crucial.
* **Community Education:** Raising awareness about breast cancer risk factors, early detection, and treatment options is essential.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents is key to creating a truly healthy community.
* **Advocacy:** Supporting policies that promote health and wellness, such as access to healthy food, safe environments for exercise, and affordable healthcare, is vital.

The journey to a healthier Zuni is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires the dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the people who call this place home. By understanding the challenges, celebrating the strengths, and working together, the community of Zuni can write its own story of health and well-being, a story that resonates with the heart of the land itself. The breast cancer score is not a sentence; it's a call to action, a challenge to build a future where every resident has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life, surrounded by the beauty and the warmth of their close-knit community. The Zuni pulse beats strong, and its rhythm is one of hope, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a healthier tomorrow.