28584, Swansboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.20 percent of the residents in 28584 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.45 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28584 would have to travel an average of 14.49 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Nmc Camp Lejeune. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,838 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina.

## Swansboro's Heartbeat: Decoding the Hypertension Score in 28584

The salty air, the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore, the scent of fresh-caught seafood – this is Swansboro, North Carolina. Nestled on the Crystal Coast, where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the Atlantic, this town of just over 4,000 souls in the 28584 ZIP code offers a lifestyle that, on the surface, seems tailor-made for health and well-being. But beneath the idyllic veneer, a silent threat lingers: hypertension, or high blood pressure.

This isn't a problem unique to Swansboro. It's a nationwide challenge, a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle, and access to care. But understanding the specific factors at play within 28584 is crucial to building a healthier community. We're not just talking about numbers here; we're talking about the lives of your neighbors, the folks you see at the farmer's market, the faces you recognize at the local hardware store.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of the Community**

Before we dive into the "why" of hypertension, let's sketch a portrait of the people who call 28584 home. The demographics are a crucial piece of the puzzle.

The median age in Swansboro is comfortably above the national average, suggesting a population with a significant number of older adults. This is important because the risk of hypertension increases with age. Many residents are retirees, drawn to the tranquility and slower pace of coastal living. They've worked hard, raised families, and now deserve to enjoy their golden years. Ensuring they can do so in good health is paramount.

The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a smaller but significant African American population, and a growing Hispanic community. Understanding these nuances is critical. Hypertension disproportionately affects certain racial and ethnic groups, and culturally sensitive healthcare approaches are essential.

The economic landscape is a mix. While the cost of living in Swansboro is generally manageable, it’s not without its challenges. Some residents are comfortably middle-class, enjoying the benefits of the area's tourism and service industries. Others may face financial constraints, impacting their access to healthy food, healthcare, and opportunities for physical activity.

**The Places We Live: A Tapestry of Homes and Neighborhoods**

The physical environment plays a significant role in community health. Where we live, how our neighborhoods are designed, and the resources available within them all contribute to our overall well-being.

Imagine strolling through the charming streets of historic downtown Swansboro. The quaint shops, the art galleries, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the bakery – it’s a picture of small-town charm. But even here, subtle factors can influence health. Are there sidewalks? Are they well-maintained, accessible to all? Is there adequate lighting for evening walks?

Venture further out, and you'll find a variety of housing options. There are the cozy bungalows nestled along the waterfront, the modern townhouses with community pools, and the sprawling single-family homes in newer developments. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, its own set of challenges and opportunities.

Consider the accessibility of grocery stores. Are there easily accessible options for fresh produce and healthy food choices? Or are residents reliant on convenience stores that may offer less nutritious options? The availability of affordable, healthy food is a fundamental factor in managing hypertension.

**The Healthy Lifestyle in Swansboro: A Balancing Act**

Swansboro offers a wealth of opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, but translating those opportunities into consistent habits requires effort and support.

Picture this: the sun rising over the White Oak River, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Residents are already out and about. Some are kayaking, gliding silently through the calm waters. Others are cycling along the scenic waterfront paths, the wind whipping through their hair. The natural beauty of the area is a powerful motivator for outdoor recreation.

The local parks and trails are a treasure trove for physical activity. Hammocks Beach State Park, with its pristine sands and hiking trails, is a haven for nature lovers. The Croatan National Forest offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. These opportunities are invaluable for promoting regular exercise, a cornerstone of hypertension management.

But it's not just about outdoor activities. Healthy eating is equally important. The Swansboro Farmers Market, held weekly, provides access to fresh, locally grown produce. Local restaurants often feature fresh seafood, a heart-healthy option. But are these options accessible to everyone? Are there programs to educate residents about healthy cooking and meal planning?

**The Local Wellness Programs: Building a Stronger Foundation**

The community's commitment to health is evident in the various wellness programs available. These programs are vital in providing education, resources, and support to residents.

The Carteret County Health Department plays a crucial role in providing preventative care, health screenings, and educational programs. They may offer blood pressure checks, health education workshops, and resources for managing chronic conditions.

Local healthcare providers, including family doctors and specialists, are on the front lines of hypertension management. They provide diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The availability of quality healthcare, including access to specialists like cardiologists, is essential.

Churches and community organizations often host health fairs and wellness initiatives. These events provide a platform for sharing information, offering screenings, and connecting residents with valuable resources.

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

The intangible elements of community life – the sense of belonging, the social connections, the support networks – are also critical to health.

Imagine a potluck dinner at a local church. Neighbors gather, sharing food and conversation. This is more than just a social event; it's an opportunity to build relationships, to support each other, and to create a sense of community.

A strong social network can buffer against stress, a significant contributor to hypertension. Knowing you have people to rely on, people who care about your well-being, can make a world of difference.

The local volunteer organizations, the civic groups, the sports leagues – these are all avenues for social connection and community involvement. They foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for people to support each other.

**The Outdoor Recreation: A Natural Prescription**

Swansboro's natural beauty is a powerful asset for promoting health and well-being. The opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant.

Picture yourself on a fishing charter, the sun on your face, the wind in your hair. The simple act of being outdoors, of connecting with nature, has a profound impact on both physical and mental health.

Hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding – these activities are not just enjoyable; they're also excellent forms of exercise. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of hypertension management.

The availability of parks, trails, and waterways is a key factor. Are these resources accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability? Are there programs to encourage people to take advantage of these opportunities?

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

So, what does the "Hypertension Score" look like for 28584? It's not a single number, but rather a complex equation, a reflection of the interplay of demographics, lifestyle, access to care, and community resources.

The score is likely influenced by the aging population, the potential for financial constraints impacting access to healthy food and healthcare, and the need for culturally sensitive approaches to healthcare.

However, the score is also buoyed by the abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation, the strong sense of community, and the local wellness programs.

The goal is not to assign a grade but to understand the challenges and opportunities. The hypertension score is a call to action.

**What can be done?**

* **Expand access to healthy food:** Support the Swansboro Farmers Market, advocate for affordable grocery options, and promote community gardens.
* **Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities:** Improve and maintain existing trails, create new recreational spaces, and promote programs that encourage physical activity.
* **Strengthen local wellness programs:** Increase funding for the Carteret County Health Department, support local healthcare providers, and promote community health education initiatives.
* **Foster a sense of community:** Encourage social connections, support volunteer organizations, and promote community events.
* **Address health disparities:** Implement culturally sensitive healthcare approaches and address the unique needs of different demographic groups.

By working together, the residents of 28584 can build a healthier community, a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. It's about more than just lowering blood pressure; it's about building a stronger, more vibrant Swansboro, a place where the heartbeat of the community is strong and healthy.