39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.42 percent of the residents in 39406 has some form of health insurance. 10.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39406 would have to travel an average of 1.81 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Forrest General Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,610 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

## The Breath of Hattiesburg: Unpacking the COPD Score in 39406

The air hangs thick and humid in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, a characteristic embrace of the Deep South. But for some residents of the 39406 ZIP code, that embrace can feel like a constricting grip. We're not just talking about the humidity; we're talking about the breath itself. This isn't just a medical article; it's a deep dive into the community health landscape of 39406, a place where the shadow of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) looms large, and where the fight for a healthier life is a daily struggle. We're going to explore the factors that contribute to this, the vibrant threads of community that offer resilience, and the pathways towards a future where the air is easier to breathe.

**The Scorecard: Understanding the COPD Risk in 39406**

Before we get into the specifics, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: COPD. This progressive lung disease, encompassing emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is a significant health concern in Mississippi, and preliminary data suggests that 39406 mirrors this trend. While a precise "COPD score" for the ZIP code is complex and requires detailed medical analysis (which we aren't conducting here), we can build a picture of the risk factors and community health indicators that contribute to the prevalence of this debilitating illness. Think of this as a qualitative assessment, a narrative map of the challenges and opportunities.

**Demographics: The People of 39406**

The 39406 ZIP code is a tapestry woven with diverse threads. A significant portion of the population is African American, reflecting the historical and cultural heritage of Hattiesburg. There's a strong presence of families, young adults, and a growing number of retirees. The economic landscape is varied, with pockets of affluence and areas facing economic hardship. This socioeconomic diversity is a key factor in understanding the health challenges faced by residents.

Imagine the front porch of a weathered shotgun house on Gordon Street. The air smells of honeysuckle and frying chicken. A grandmother, her face etched with the stories of a long life, watches her grandchildren play in the yard. She might have smoked for decades, a habit ingrained in her social fabric, a coping mechanism against the stresses of life. This is a reality for many in 39406, where generational patterns of behavior, including smoking, can significantly impact respiratory health.

Further down the road, you see a young couple, both working multiple jobs, trying to make ends meet. The stress of financial insecurity, coupled with limited access to healthy food options and healthcare, can exacerbate existing health vulnerabilities. Their lifestyle, dictated by necessity, might leave little room for preventative care or the time to prioritize a healthy lifestyle.

**Places to Live: The Built Environment and its Impact**

The physical environment of 39406 plays a crucial role. Housing conditions can vary widely. Some homes are well-maintained, with manicured lawns and fresh paint. Others show the wear and tear of time and limited resources, potentially harboring mold, dust mites, and other allergens that can trigger or worsen respiratory problems.

Consider the older homes near the University of Southern Mississippi. These historic structures, while charming, may have outdated HVAC systems and poor ventilation, contributing to indoor air quality issues. The proximity to traffic and industrial areas, especially along Hardy Street, can expose residents to air pollutants that further compromise lung health.

Venture into the less affluent neighborhoods, and you'll see a different picture. Overcrowding, substandard housing, and a lack of green spaces can contribute to increased stress levels and reduced opportunities for physical activity. This, in turn, can lead to a higher risk of developing or worsening COPD.

**The Vibe: Community Resilience and Social Determinants**

The neighborhood vibe of 39406 is a complex mix of resilience and challenge. There's a strong sense of community, a deep-rooted history, and a palpable warmth that defines the spirit of the people. This is a place where neighbors help neighbors, where families gather for Sunday dinners, and where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons.

But this vibrant community also faces significant social determinants of health. Access to quality healthcare, including preventative screenings and specialized respiratory care, can be a challenge. Transportation limitations, particularly for those without personal vehicles, can make it difficult to reach medical appointments. Food deserts, where access to fresh, healthy food is limited, can contribute to poor nutrition and overall health.

Picture the bustling farmers market held on Saturdays. It’s a vibrant hub of activity, a place where local farmers sell their produce and residents gather to connect. But is this market accessible to everyone in 39406? Are there programs in place to support those with limited incomes to access these healthy food options?

**Healthy Lifestyle in Hattiesburg: The Pursuit of Wellness**

Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope and opportunities for positive change. The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in Hattiesburg is gaining momentum.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Several local organizations are working to address the health needs of the community. Hattiesburg Clinic, for example, offers comprehensive medical services, including pulmonary care. The Forrest County Health Department provides vital public health programs, including smoking cessation support and education on COPD prevention. Community health centers offer affordable healthcare options, bridging the gap for those with limited access.

Imagine a community health fair held in a local park. Volunteers are offering free lung function screenings, providing information on COPD, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. This is the kind of grassroots effort that can make a real difference in raising awareness and empowering individuals to take control of their health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Reconnection**

The natural beauty of Hattiesburg and its surrounding areas offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile paved trail, provides opportunities for walking, running, and cycling, promoting physical activity and outdoor recreation. Parks like Tatum Park offer green spaces for families to gather and enjoy the fresh air.

Picture yourself strolling along the Longleaf Trace, the sun dappling through the trees, the sounds of birdsong filling the air. This is a space for rejuvenation, a place to reconnect with nature and to breathe deeply. But are these resources accessible to everyone in 39406? Are there programs in place to ensure that all residents can benefit from these opportunities?

**The COPD Score: A Call to Action**

While we haven't quantified a specific "COPD score" for 39406, the narrative we've painted reveals a complex interplay of factors that impact respiratory health. The demographics, the built environment, the neighborhood vibe, and the availability of local wellness programs all contribute to the overall picture.

The fight against COPD in 39406 requires a multi-faceted approach. It demands:

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including preventative screenings, specialized respiratory care, and smoking cessation programs.
* **Improved Housing Conditions:** Addressing substandard housing conditions, promoting healthy indoor air quality, and ensuring access to safe and affordable housing.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy eating habits, and providing education on COPD prevention and management.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and residents to address the social determinants of health.
* **Investing in Green Spaces and Outdoor Recreation:** Ensuring that all residents have access to parks, trails, and other opportunities for outdoor activity.

The journey towards a healthier 39406 is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires sustained effort, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the community. It's about empowering individuals to take control of their health, creating a supportive environment, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to breathe freely.

The air in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is rich with history, culture, and the resilience of its people. By addressing the challenges of COPD and promoting a healthier lifestyle, we can ensure that the residents of 39406 can breathe easier, live longer, and enjoy the full richness of life. The future of 39406 depends on it.