39540, Diberville, Mississippi Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 39540, Diberville, Mississippi is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.52 percent of the residents in 39540 has some form of health insurance. 32.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.96 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39540 would have to travel an average of 2.07 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, 81st Medical Group (Keesler Afb). In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,645 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39540, Diberville, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score: A Pulse Check on Community Health in D'Iberville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39540)

The Gulf breeze whispers through the Spanish moss draped over the live oaks lining the streets of D'Iberville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39540). It carries the scent of salt and the promise of a good life, a life lived close to the water, where fishing boats dance on the horizon and the rhythm of the tide dictates the pace of the day. But beneath this idyllic surface, a different kind of current flows – the silent, insidious pressure of hypertension, a condition that can quietly erode the health of a community. This article isn't about medical jargon; it's about understanding the pulse of D'Iberville, the factors that contribute to its health, and the steps that can be taken to cultivate a stronger, healthier future for its residents.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Life**

D'Iberville, a city nestled on the Back Bay of Biloxi, is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and history. The population, hovering around 11,000, reflects a diverse blend of ages and backgrounds. You see families who've been here for generations, their roots sunk deep into the fertile soil, alongside newcomers drawn by the promise of coastal living and economic opportunity. The median age skews slightly older, reflecting a significant retirement community, but there's a vibrant undercurrent of young families building their lives here, drawn by the affordability and the slower pace.

The racial makeup is a mosaic, a blend of white, Black, and Hispanic communities, each contributing to the unique character of the city. This diversity, however, also presents challenges. Socioeconomic disparities exist, and access to quality healthcare and nutritious food can vary significantly across different neighborhoods. Understanding these nuances is crucial to accurately assessing the community's health and identifying the areas where support is most needed.

**Places to Live: Shaping the Landscape of Well-being**

The housing landscape in D'Iberville is as varied as its people. You'll find charming bungalows tucked away on tree-lined streets, their porches inviting you to sit and watch the world go by. Modern subdivisions with manicured lawns and community pools offer a more contemporary lifestyle. Then there are the mobile home parks, a vital part of the community's affordable housing options.

The location of these different housing types plays a significant role in shaping the health of the residents. Proximity to grocery stores, parks, and recreational facilities is critical. Imagine a family living in a neighborhood where the nearest supermarket is miles away, forcing them to rely on convenience stores for their groceries. This can lead to a diet high in processed foods, a major contributor to hypertension. Conversely, a home near the Popp's Ferry Causeway Park, with its walking trails and open spaces, encourages physical activity, a powerful weapon against high blood pressure.

The very design of the neighborhoods matters. Are there sidewalks? Are the streets safe for walking and biking? Are there green spaces where children can play and adults can relax? These seemingly small details contribute significantly to the overall well-being of the community.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" is more than just a feeling; it's the social fabric that holds a community together. In D'Iberville, you can feel the warmth of that fabric in the smiles exchanged at the local coffee shop, in the friendly waves from neighbors as you stroll along the bayou, and in the shared laughter at the annual community events.

This sense of connection is vital to health. Strong social networks provide support, reduce stress, and encourage healthy behaviors. Think of the informal gatherings at the local park, where neighbors share recipes and encourage each other to walk the trails. Or the church groups that organize community meals, offering both nourishment and fellowship. These are the threads that weave a strong community, a community that is more resilient to the challenges of hypertension.

However, this sense of connection can also be fragile. Social isolation, a growing problem in many communities, can exacerbate health problems. The elderly, those living alone, and individuals struggling with mental health issues are particularly vulnerable. Strengthening the social fabric through community initiatives, volunteer programs, and opportunities for interaction is a crucial step in promoting overall well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Gulf Coast Life**

D'Iberville is blessed with a stunning natural environment. The Back Bay, the Gulf Coast beaches, and the numerous parks and green spaces offer a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. This is a significant advantage in the fight against hypertension.

Imagine the early morning joggers along the scenic Popp's Ferry Causeway, the sun painting the water in hues of gold and rose. Picture families picnicking in the park, children laughing as they chase each other across the grass. Envision the kayakers gliding through the calm waters of the bayou, their muscles working, their minds at peace.

These activities are not just recreational; they are essential for physical and mental health. Regular exercise, fresh air, and exposure to nature are powerful tools in lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.

The challenge lies in ensuring that these opportunities are accessible to everyone. Are the parks well-maintained and safe? Are there programs that encourage people of all ages and abilities to participate in outdoor activities? Are there initiatives to educate residents about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle?

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The seeds of change are already being sown in D'Iberville. Local wellness programs, often spearheaded by community organizations, healthcare providers, and even local businesses, are working to address the issue of hypertension and promote a healthier lifestyle.

The local clinics might be offering free blood pressure screenings and educational workshops on healthy eating and exercise. The community center could be hosting fitness classes and cooking demonstrations. The local grocery store might be partnering with a nutritionist to provide healthy meal planning tips.

These programs, though often operating on limited resources, are making a real difference. They are empowering individuals to take control of their health, providing them with the knowledge and support they need to make positive changes.

However, more can be done. Increased funding for these programs, expanded access to healthcare, and a greater emphasis on preventative care are essential. The city could invest in creating more walking and biking trails, making it easier for residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives. Partnerships between local businesses and healthcare providers could offer incentives for employees to adopt healthy habits.

**A Vignette: The Story of Maria**

Maria, a vibrant woman in her late 50s, has lived in D'Iberville her entire life. She loves the community, the friendly faces, and the laid-back lifestyle. But lately, she's been feeling tired and experiencing headaches. A recent doctor's visit revealed she has high blood pressure.

Maria's story is not unique. Like many residents, she works long hours, often relying on convenient, processed foods. She doesn't have much time for exercise. But Maria is determined to improve her health.

She starts by attending a free cooking class at the community center, learning how to prepare delicious and healthy meals. She joins a walking group that meets at the Popp's Ferry Causeway Park every morning. She even starts volunteering at the local food bank, where she helps distribute fresh produce to those in need.

Slowly but surely, Maria's health begins to improve. Her blood pressure drops. She feels more energetic. She finds a renewed sense of purpose and connection to her community. Maria's story is a testament to the power of individual action and the importance of community support.

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

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" of D'Iberville is not a simple matter of numbers. It's about understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the health of its residents. It's about recognizing the challenges and celebrating the strengths.

The community faces challenges: socioeconomic disparities, limited access to healthy food options in some areas, and the need for increased awareness about hypertension. But it also possesses incredible strengths: a strong sense of community, a beautiful natural environment, and a growing network of local wellness programs.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," D'Iberville must focus on:

* **Increasing access to affordable, healthy food:** Supporting local farmers markets, encouraging grocery stores to offer more healthy options, and providing nutrition education.
* **Promoting physical activity:** Investing in walking and biking trails, creating more green spaces, and offering free or low-cost fitness programs.
* **Strengthening social connections:** Supporting community events, fostering volunteer opportunities, and addressing social isolation.
* **Expanding access to healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality healthcare, including regular blood pressure screenings and preventative care.
* **Empowering individuals:** Providing education and resources to help residents make informed decisions about their health.

The journey to a healthier D'Iberville is a collective one. It requires the commitment of individuals, community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government. It requires a shared vision of a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. The gentle Gulf breeze carries the promise of a healthier future for D'Iberville, a future where the rhythm of life is one of vitality and well-being.