28341, Faison, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 28341, Faison, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.74 percent of the residents in 28341 has some form of health insurance. 43.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.99 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28341 would have to travel an average of 12.04 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Sampson Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,382 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28341, Faison, North Carolina.

## The Pulse of Faison: Unveiling the Hypertension Score in 28341

The air in Faison, North Carolina, hangs thick with the scent of freshly tilled earth, a testament to the town's agricultural heart. But beyond the fertile fields and the quiet charm of this Duplin County community, a silent threat simmers: hypertension, or high blood pressure. In the context of community health, understanding the prevalence of hypertension, and the factors that contribute to it, is crucial to building a healthier future for the residents of ZIP code 28341. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the lives lived, the choices made, and the environment that shapes them. It's about the pulse of Faison.

**A Tapestry of Demographics:**

The demographic makeup of 28341 paints a picture of a close-knit community with deep roots. The population is predominantly comprised of families, many of whom have lived in the area for generations. The median age skews slightly older, reflecting a community that values stability and tradition. The racial makeup is diverse, with a significant African American population alongside a substantial white population, creating a rich cultural blend. This diversity, however, also presents unique challenges. Certain racial and ethnic groups are disproportionately affected by hypertension, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive healthcare and tailored interventions.

The economic landscape of Faison is largely agrarian, with many residents employed in farming or related industries. This can lead to a more physically demanding lifestyle, which, in itself, isn't inherently negative. However, the potential for limited access to healthy food options, coupled with the stress of seasonal work and financial instability, can contribute to a higher risk of hypertension. Understanding the economic realities of the community is essential to crafting effective health initiatives.

**The Vibe of the Neighborhood:**

Imagine a late afternoon in Faison. The sun casts long shadows across the town square, where a few older gentlemen are engaged in a lively game of checkers, their laughter echoing through the quiet streets. Children, their faces flushed with exertion, are racing their bikes down the tree-lined avenues, their joyous shrieks a familiar soundtrack to the neighborhood. The air is filled with the aroma of home-cooked meals wafting from open windows. This is the essence of Faison: a sense of community, a slower pace of life, and a deep-seated connection to the land.

But beneath the surface of this idyllic scene, there are subtle indicators that influence the community's health. The availability of sidewalks and safe walking paths, for instance, is a crucial factor in promoting physical activity. Are there readily accessible green spaces for residents to enjoy? Are there community gardens where fresh produce can be cultivated? The answers to these questions provide a glimpse into the community's commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle.

**Places to Live and Their Impact:**

The type of housing in 28341 varies, from well-maintained single-family homes to more modest dwellings. The condition of these homes, the availability of affordable housing options, and the proximity to essential services all play a role in the overall health of the community.

Picture a family returning home after a long day. The front porch, weathered by time, offers a welcoming space for relaxation. The kitchen, the heart of the home, is where meals are prepared and memories are made. But what if access to fresh, affordable ingredients is limited? What if the nearest grocery store is miles away, forcing the family to rely on less healthy, processed options? These seemingly small details can have a significant impact on dietary choices and, consequently, on the risk of hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted View:**

The "Hypertension Score" in 28341 isn't a single number; it's a composite of various factors, each contributing to the overall risk profile. It's a reflection of the community's health behaviors, the environment, and the access to healthcare resources.

* **Dietary Habits:** The prevalence of fast-food restaurants, the availability of fresh produce at local markets, and the cultural norms surrounding food all play a role. Are there opportunities for nutrition education and cooking classes? Are there initiatives to promote healthy eating habits within the community?
* **Physical Activity:** The availability of parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities is crucial. Are there organized sports leagues or community fitness programs? Do schools prioritize physical education?
* **Stress Levels:** The economic realities of the community, the availability of social support networks, and the overall sense of community cohesion all contribute to stress levels. Are there mental health services available? Are there community events that foster a sense of belonging?
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative care services is paramount. Are there mobile health clinics that serve the community? Are there programs that provide free or low-cost screenings for hypertension?
* **Health Literacy:** The community's understanding of hypertension, its risk factors, and its management is crucial. Are there educational programs that empower residents to take control of their health?

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change:**

Fortunately, in Faison, there are glimmers of hope and seeds of change taking root. Local organizations and healthcare providers are working tirelessly to address the challenges of hypertension.

* **The Duplin County Health Department:** The health department is a vital resource, offering health screenings, educational programs, and resources for managing chronic conditions. They might be hosting blood pressure screenings at the local community center or providing educational materials in both English and Spanish.
* **Local Churches:** Churches often serve as community hubs, providing a platform for health education and support. They might organize health fairs, offer cooking classes, or provide transportation to medical appointments.
* **Community Gardens:** These gardens not only provide access to fresh produce but also foster a sense of community and promote physical activity. Imagine a group of neighbors working side-by-side, tending to their plots, sharing tips, and building relationships.
* **School-Based Initiatives:** Schools can play a crucial role in educating children about healthy lifestyles. They might incorporate nutrition education into the curriculum, promote physical activity during recess, or offer after-school sports programs.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Space:**

The natural beauty of Duplin County offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

* **Parks and Green Spaces:** Are there well-maintained parks and green spaces where residents can enjoy walking, jogging, or simply relaxing in nature? Imagine a family picnicking under the shade of a towering oak tree, or a group of friends enjoying a leisurely stroll along a scenic trail.
* **Local Farms:** The agricultural landscape of Faison provides opportunities for farm visits and agritourism, connecting residents with the source of their food and promoting a deeper appreciation for the land.
* **Fishing and Hunting:** For some residents, these activities provide a connection to nature and a source of physical activity.

**The Path Forward: A Collaborative Effort:**

Addressing the challenge of hypertension in 28341 requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and, most importantly, the residents themselves.

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative care, is crucial. This could involve establishing mobile health clinics, expanding telehealth services, or increasing the number of community health workers.
* **Promoting Healthy Eating Habits:** Supporting local farmers markets, encouraging the establishment of community gardens, and providing nutrition education are essential steps. This could involve partnering with local restaurants to offer healthy menu options or creating cooking classes that teach residents how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget.
* **Encouraging Physical Activity:** Creating safe and accessible spaces for physical activity, such as walking trails, parks, and recreational facilities, is crucial. This could involve partnering with local schools to promote physical education, organizing community fitness programs, or advocating for the development of sidewalks and bike lanes.
* **Reducing Stress Levels:** Providing access to mental health services, fostering a sense of community cohesion, and supporting social support networks are essential. This could involve organizing community events, establishing support groups, or promoting mindfulness practices.
* **Empowering Residents:** Educating residents about hypertension, its risk factors, and its management is paramount. This could involve providing health education materials in multiple languages, organizing health fairs, or partnering with community leaders to promote healthy behaviors.

**The Future of Faison:**

The future of Faison's community health hinges on the collective commitment to building a healthier environment. By understanding the factors that contribute to hypertension, implementing targeted interventions, and empowering residents to take control of their health, the community can create a brighter future for generations to come. It's about fostering a culture of wellness, where healthy choices are the norm, and where the pulse of Faison beats strong and steady. It's about ensuring that the children racing their bikes down the tree-lined avenues can continue to do so, healthy and vibrant, for many years to come.