39365, Union, Mississippi Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 39365, Union, Mississippi is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.44 percent of the residents in 39365 has some form of health insurance. 46.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.45 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39365 would have to travel an average of 1.30 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ochsner Laird Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 627 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39365, Union, Mississippi.

## The Heartbeat of Union: Decoding the Hypertension Score in 39365

The Mississippi sun beats down on Union, a town nestled in the heart of Neshoba County. It’s a place where porch swings whisper stories, pickup trucks rumble down Main Street, and the scent of blooming magnolias hangs heavy in the air. But beneath the surface of small-town charm lies a crucial health challenge: hypertension. In ZIP code 39365, the numbers tell a story, a story of community health that demands attention, understanding, and action. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives of the people who call Union home.

**Understanding the Score: A Glimpse into the Numbers**

Before we dive into the specifics of Union, let's understand the "Hypertension Score." While there isn't a single, universally recognized score, we can construct a composite picture. This involves looking at various factors influencing blood pressure, including:

* **Prevalence of Hypertension:** How many people in 39365 are diagnosed with high blood pressure?
* **Control Rates:** Among those diagnosed, how effectively is their blood pressure managed?
* **Risk Factors:** What are the common contributors to hypertension in the community? This includes factors like age, race, socioeconomic status, diet, physical activity levels, and access to healthcare.
* **Mortality Rates:** Are there elevated rates of heart disease, stroke, or other conditions linked to uncontrolled hypertension?

Data for these factors is often gleaned from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Mississippi Department of Health, local healthcare providers, and community health surveys. The "score" then becomes a reflection of the overall health of the community, a gauge of its resilience and vulnerabilities.

**Demographics: The Faces of Union**

Union's demographics are crucial to understanding its health profile. The population is predominantly white, with a significant African American community. Median household income is lower than the state average, and a portion of the population lives below the poverty line. These socioeconomic factors play a significant role in health outcomes. Limited access to healthy food options, lack of transportation to healthcare facilities, and the stresses of financial insecurity can all contribute to the development and management of hypertension.

Imagine Mrs. Jones, a vibrant woman with a warm smile, who has lived in Union her entire life. She works at the local diner, where the aroma of fried chicken and biscuits fills the air. She loves her community but finds it hard to afford fresh produce. Her doctor has told her about her high blood pressure, but navigating the healthcare system and finding affordable medication is a constant struggle.

Then there's Mr. Davis, a retired veteran who enjoys his daily walks around the neighborhood. He's seen the town change over the years, and he worries about the health of his neighbors. He understands the importance of a healthy lifestyle but struggles to find readily available resources to support it.

These are the faces of Union, and their experiences are woven into the fabric of the community's health.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial element. It's the intangible energy that shapes daily life. In Union, this vibe is characterized by a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other and look out for one another. However, the town also faces challenges.

The availability of safe and accessible spaces for physical activity is a key factor. Are there parks with well-maintained walking trails? Are there community centers offering fitness classes? The presence of these resources can significantly impact the community's ability to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.

Consider the lack of sidewalks on some streets, making walking a risky proposition. Imagine a young mother, pushing her stroller, forced to walk on the shoulder of the road. Or an elderly gentleman, wanting to take a leisurely stroll but hesitant due to the lack of safe pathways.

The "vibe" also includes the availability of healthy food options. Are there grocery stores offering fresh produce? Are there farmers' markets where residents can purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables? The prevalence of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores, often serving less nutritious options, can contribute to unhealthy eating habits.

**Places to Live: The Landscape of Health**

Where people live significantly impacts their health. In Union, the housing landscape is varied. There are older homes with character, newer developments, and mobile home parks. The quality of housing, access to utilities, and proximity to essential services all play a role.

Think about the residents of the mobile home park on the outskirts of town. They might face challenges related to access to healthcare, transportation, and healthy food options. Or consider the families living in older homes, where lead paint or other environmental hazards might pose health risks.

The availability of affordable housing is another critical factor. When families struggle to make ends meet, they often prioritize immediate needs over long-term health. This can lead to unhealthy dietary choices, lack of access to healthcare, and increased stress levels, all of which can contribute to hypertension.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into Union**

Union is blessed with natural beauty. The rolling hills, the lush forests, and the nearby lakes offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, the accessibility and utilization of these resources are key.

The presence of a well-maintained park with walking trails, a playground, and picnic areas can encourage physical activity and social interaction. Imagine families gathering for a weekend picnic, children playing, and adults taking a leisurely stroll.

The availability of fishing spots, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle. These activities provide opportunities for exercise, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Fortunately, Union is not without its champions of community health. Local healthcare providers, community organizations, and faith-based groups are working tirelessly to address the challenges of hypertension.

Imagine a free blood pressure screening clinic held at the local community center. Volunteers offer screenings, provide educational materials, and connect residents with resources.

Consider a cooking class focused on healthy eating, teaching residents how to prepare delicious and affordable meals. Or a walking group that meets regularly, providing social support and encouraging physical activity.

These local wellness programs are the seeds of change, planting the seeds of a healthier future for Union.

**The Path Forward: A Call to Action**

Addressing the hypertension challenge in Union requires a multi-faceted approach. It demands collaboration between healthcare providers, community leaders, residents, and organizations.

Here are some key areas for action:

* **Increase Access to Healthcare:** Expand access to affordable healthcare services, including regular checkups, blood pressure screenings, and medication management.
* **Promote Healthy Eating:** Increase access to healthy food options, including fresh produce, and provide education on healthy eating habits.
* **Encourage Physical Activity:** Create safe and accessible spaces for physical activity, such as walking trails, parks, and community centers.
* **Raise Awareness:** Educate the community about hypertension, its risk factors, and its management.
* **Empower Residents:** Provide residents with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to make healthy choices.
* **Address Socioeconomic Factors:** Advocate for policies that address poverty, improve housing conditions, and increase economic opportunities.

**The Future of Union: A Healthier Heartbeat**

The journey to improve community health in Union is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a shared vision for a healthier future. By understanding the numbers, embracing the community's unique strengths, and working together, the residents of Union can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. The heartbeat of Union, once challenged by hypertension, can become stronger, healthier, and more vibrant than ever before. The future of Union is in the hands of its people, and the time to act is now.