39534, Biloxi, Mississippi Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 39534, Biloxi, Mississippi is 1 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 39534 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39534 would have to travel an average of 0.21 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, 81st Medical Group (Keesler Afb). In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,609 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39534, Biloxi, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score: A Biloxi Beat – Taking the Pulse of 39534

The salty air, thick with the scent of Gulf shrimp and the promise of a good time, hangs heavy over Biloxi. It’s a city that wears its history on its sleeve, from the grand antebellum homes that whisper tales of the past to the vibrant casinos that hum with the energy of the present. But beyond the shimmering facade of tourism and entertainment, a different narrative unfolds, one of community health, particularly within the ZIP code of 39534. This is where we take the pulse, where we assess the “Hypertension Score” – a metaphorical measure of the cardiovascular health of the residents, a reflection of their lifestyles and the resources available to them.

**The Canvas of 39534: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Imagine a map. 39534, a sprawling ZIP code, encompasses a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. It stretches from the bustling commercial corridors near the casinos, where neon lights compete with the sunrise, to the quieter residential streets that hug the coastline. The demographics are a mosaic, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Biloxi.

You have the descendants of the original French settlers, their families deeply rooted in the shrimping industry, their voices carrying the lilting cadence of the Gulf Coast. Then there are the African American communities, their history interwoven with the very fabric of Biloxi, their resilience etched into the faces of those who have weathered storms, both literal and figurative. And of course, the influx of people from all over the country, drawn to the allure of the Gulf Coast, creating a vibrant blend of cultures and experiences.

The median age in 39534 is a bit older than the national average, a factor that inherently increases the risk of hypertension. A significant portion of the population identifies as belonging to a minority group, a demographic often disproportionately affected by chronic diseases like hypertension due to a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and cultural influences.

The economic landscape of 39534 presents its own challenges. While the casino industry provides a significant number of jobs, the income levels can vary greatly. Many residents work in service industries, often with limited access to health insurance and paid time off. This can make it difficult to prioritize preventative care, including regular checkups and healthy lifestyle choices.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Life Unfolds**

Let's wander through a few of the neighborhoods that make up 39534.

Picture a sunny morning in a quiet residential street near the beach. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the faint sound of waves lapping against the shore. A group of neighbors, mostly retirees, are gathered on a porch, sharing stories and laughter. The pace of life is slower here, a stark contrast to the frenetic energy of the casino strip. But even in this idyllic setting, the shadow of hypertension looms. The relaxed lifestyle can sometimes lead to a lack of physical activity, and the proximity to tempting seafood restaurants can make it difficult to maintain a healthy diet.

Now, imagine a different scene. Head inland, away from the coast, and you'll find neighborhoods with a more working-class vibe. The streets are lined with modest homes, the yards filled with the tools of the trade – fishing rods, gardening equipment, and the occasional well-loved pickup truck. Here, the challenges are different. Long work hours, limited access to fresh produce, and the stress of daily life can contribute to the risk of hypertension.

Further inland, we find pockets of newer developments, catering to a more affluent population. The homes are larger, the lawns meticulously manicured. While residents here may have greater access to resources, the pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle can also take its toll. The demands of a high-pressure career, coupled with the temptation of convenience foods and sedentary habits, can contribute to elevated blood pressure.

**The Seeds of Hypertension: Lifestyle and Environmental Factors**

The lifestyle choices of the residents of 39534 are crucial to understanding the hypertension score.

Diet is a major player. The Gulf Coast is a culinary paradise, but the abundance of fried seafood, rich sauces, and sugary treats can be a double-edged sword. The traditional Southern diet, while delicious, is often high in sodium and saturated fats, both known contributors to hypertension.

Physical activity is another crucial factor. While the beach offers a natural playground for recreation, the allure of air-conditioned comfort, the long work hours, and the lack of easily accessible parks and walking trails can make it difficult for residents to incorporate regular exercise into their routines.

Stress, a silent killer, also plays a significant role. The economic uncertainties, the pressures of daily life, and the constant threat of hurricanes can create a breeding ground for chronic stress, which in turn can elevate blood pressure.

Environmental factors also come into play. The availability of healthy food options, the presence of safe spaces for exercise, and the quality of the air and water all contribute to the overall health of the community.

**The Healing Hands: Local Wellness Programs and Resources**

But the story of 39534 isn't just one of challenges. There are rays of hope, initiatives that are working to improve the community's health.

Local hospitals and clinics are at the forefront, offering free or low-cost health screenings, educational programs, and support groups. They are actively working to identify individuals at risk of hypertension and provide them with the resources they need to manage their condition.

Community centers are stepping up, providing access to exercise classes, nutritional workshops, and support groups. They are becoming hubs of health and wellness, offering a safe and supportive environment for residents to learn and connect.

Local farmers' markets, though still in their infancy, are beginning to emerge, providing access to fresh, locally grown produce. This is a crucial step in addressing the dietary challenges faced by many residents.

The city government is also playing a role, investing in parks and recreation facilities, creating walking trails, and promoting healthy lifestyle initiatives.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Gulf Coast's Embrace**

The natural beauty of Biloxi offers a powerful antidote to the stressors of modern life. The beach itself is a free and accessible source of exercise and relaxation. Walking along the shoreline, feeling the sand between your toes, and breathing in the salty air can lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

The city's parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. Parks like Point Cadet Plaza, with its scenic views and walking paths, provide a safe and enjoyable environment for exercise. The nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore offers miles of pristine beaches and hiking trails, perfect for a more vigorous workout.

Boating and fishing are popular pastimes in Biloxi, offering both physical activity and a connection to nature. These activities can be a great way to relieve stress and improve overall well-being.

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

So, what is the Hypertension Score for 39534? It's a complex equation, a blend of demographics, lifestyle factors, environmental influences, and the availability of resources. It's likely higher than it should be, a reflection of the challenges faced by many residents. But it's not a static number. It's a call to action.

It's a call for increased awareness, for more education about healthy lifestyle choices, and for greater access to affordable healthcare. It's a call for more investment in community health programs, for more parks and recreation facilities, and for more support for local businesses that promote healthy eating.

It's a call for the community to come together, to support each other, and to work towards a healthier future.

The story of 39534 is still being written. And with each step taken towards a healthier lifestyle, with each program implemented, and with each individual who takes control of their health, the Hypertension Score will begin to improve. The vibrant spirit of Biloxi, the resilience of its people, and the beauty of the Gulf Coast will continue to inspire the journey towards a healthier, happier community. The beat of Biloxi, the pulse of 39534, is strong, and it's getting stronger every day.