28391, Stedman, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.82 percent of the residents in 28391 has some form of health insurance. 31.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.90 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28391 would have to travel an average of 13.05 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 697 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina.

## Stedman, NC: Taking Charge of Your Heart, One Beat at a Time (Hypertension Score: Optimistic!)

The Carolina sun, a fiery orange disc, bleeds across the cotton fields surrounding Stedman, North Carolina, painting the sky in hues of peach and rose. The air, thick with the scent of freshly turned earth and the promise of a new day, hums with a quiet energy. This is a town where neighbors wave from their porches, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons, and where the well-being of the community is a shared responsibility. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent challenge simmers: the threat of hypertension.

This isn't a problem unique to Stedman (ZIP Code 28391), of course. High blood pressure is a nationwide concern, a silent killer that often goes unnoticed until it's too late. But here, in this close-knit community, there's a palpable sense of determination to combat it. To understand the fight, we need to understand the battlefield: the people, the places, and the possibilities that shape the health landscape of Stedman.

**The Heart of the Matter: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Stedman, nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, is a town that wears its history on its sleeve. The population, hovering around 1,200 residents, reflects a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and community spirit. The majority of residents identify as White, with a significant African American population, creating a rich cultural blend. Families are the backbone of Stedman, with a strong presence of multi-generational households. This tight-knit structure fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, crucial ingredients in any successful health initiative.

The terrain itself plays a role. Stedman is a rural community, dotted with farms and open spaces. This offers both challenges and opportunities. The availability of fresh, locally grown produce is a potential boon for healthy eating, while access to healthcare services can be a hurdle. The nearest major medical facilities are in Fayetteville, a drive of about 20 minutes. This underscores the importance of preventative care and readily available resources within Stedman itself.

The town's housing landscape is diverse. You'll find charming, historic homes lining the main streets, alongside newer developments that cater to growing families. The price of living is relatively affordable, making Stedman an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community. This affordability, however, can sometimes lead to challenges. Limited access to resources and the pressures of daily life can contribute to stress, a known factor in the development of hypertension.

**The Vibe: A Tapestry of Traditions and Aspirations**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Stedman is one of genuine warmth and neighborliness. You can feel it in the friendly greetings exchanged at the local Dollar General, the shared laughter at the Stedman Fire Department's annual pancake breakfast, and the unwavering support during times of need.

Imagine this: The sun is setting, casting long shadows across the baseball field. The crack of the bat echoes through the air as the Stedman Stingers, the local youth baseball team, practice their swings. Parents sit on the bleachers, their faces illuminated by the golden light, cheering on their children. This is more than just a game; it's a community gathering, a testament to the importance of family and shared experiences.

The local churches are central to the community's fabric, providing not only spiritual guidance but also vital social support and outreach programs. They often serve as hubs for health education, offering workshops and resources on topics like healthy eating and exercise. These initiatives are crucial in raising awareness and empowering residents to take control of their health.

**Places to Thrive: Building a Foundation for Wellness**

Stedman may be small, but it's rich in potential. The key lies in leveraging existing resources and fostering a culture of health and well-being.

* **The Stedman Community Park:** This is more than just a park; it's the heart of outdoor recreation in Stedman. Imagine children laughing on the playground, families enjoying picnics under the shade of towering oak trees, and adults walking or jogging on the paved paths. This park is a vital space for physical activity, a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Expanding the park's amenities, perhaps adding a dedicated walking trail or a community garden, could further enhance its value.
* **The Stedman Library:** This isn't just a place to borrow books; it's a portal to information and knowledge. It can be a hub for health education, offering workshops on nutrition, stress management, and blood pressure monitoring. Partnering with local healthcare providers to host these events would be a significant step towards empowering residents with the tools they need to manage their health.
* **Local Businesses:** The local businesses, from the family-owned grocery store to the hardware store, are integral to the community. Encouraging them to offer healthy food options, promote physical activity, and support local wellness programs can create a ripple effect of positive change.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The good news is that Stedman isn't starting from scratch. There are already seeds of change being sown, initiatives that are laying the groundwork for a healthier future.

* **School-Based Programs:** The local schools play a crucial role in shaping the health of future generations. Implementing comprehensive health education programs, promoting healthy eating habits in the cafeteria, and encouraging physical activity during the school day are vital steps. Imagine students learning about the importance of fruits and vegetables, participating in fun exercise activities, and taking home healthy recipes to share with their families.
* **Community Health Fairs:** These events are a great way to bring together local healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents. They offer free health screenings, educational resources, and opportunities to connect with healthcare professionals. Imagine a health fair buzzing with activity, with people getting their blood pressure checked, learning about healthy recipes, and participating in exercise demonstrations.
* **Partnerships with Healthcare Providers:** Building strong relationships with healthcare providers in Fayetteville and beyond is essential. This can involve establishing mobile health clinics that visit Stedman regularly, offering telemedicine consultations, and providing access to specialized care.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good Life**

Stedman's rural setting provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a key component of a healthy lifestyle.

* **Walking and Hiking:** The surrounding countryside offers scenic trails for walking and hiking. Imagine residents organizing group walks, exploring the natural beauty of the area, and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Promoting these activities through community events and social media can encourage participation.
* **Gardening:** Encouraging community gardens or individual home gardens can provide access to fresh, healthy produce. Imagine families growing their own fruits and vegetables, sharing their harvests with neighbors, and learning about the importance of healthy eating.
* **Fishing and Hunting:** For those who enjoy these activities, they can provide opportunities for physical activity and connection with nature. Promoting responsible practices and ensuring access to these resources can contribute to overall well-being.

**The Hypertension Score: An Optimistic Outlook**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for Stedman, NC (ZIP Code 28391) is optimistic. While challenges exist, the community's strong sense of unity, the availability of natural resources, and the growing number of wellness initiatives point towards a positive trajectory.

The key to success lies in:

* **Empowering individuals:** Providing residents with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to manage their health.
* **Building partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents.
* **Creating a culture of health:** Promoting healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management throughout the community.

The journey to a healthier Stedman won't be easy, but the spirit of the town, the resilience of its people, and the beauty of its surroundings provide a solid foundation for success. As the sun sets over the fields, casting a warm glow over the town, you can almost hear the collective heartbeat of Stedman, a rhythm of hope, determination, and the unwavering belief in a healthier future, one beat at a time.