The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35114, Maylene, Alabama is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.08 percent of the residents in 35114 has some form of health insurance. 19.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.71 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 35114 would have to travel an average of 35.76 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Coosa Valley Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,306 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35114, Maylene, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35114, Maylene, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 88 |
---|---|
People Score | 75 |
Provider Score | 73 |
Hospital Score | 32 |
Travel Score | 75 |
35114 | Maylene | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 67.48 | 67.48 | 53.03 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 16.34 | 16.34 | 13.43 |
Medicare | 12.38 | 12.38 | 19.93 |
Medicaid | 7.76 | 7.76 | 19.33 |
TRICARE | 4.97 | 4.97 | 4.57 |
VA | 54.74 | 54.74 | 53.18 |
Percent Insured in 35114, Maylene, Alabama
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
35114 | Maylene | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 98.79 | 98.79 | 96.59 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 94.10 | 94.10 | 85.09 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.54 |
## The Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in 35114 Maylene, Alabama
The air hums in Maylene, Alabama. Not with the drone of industry, though there's a quiet hum of progress here, a steady pulse of community life. It's the kind of hum you hear in the rustling leaves of oak trees lining Old Highway 31, the murmur of conversations spilling from the porch swings of Craftsman bungalows, the laughter of children chasing fireflies at dusk. But beneath this idyllic surface, a silent enemy lurks: the threat of lung cancer. This isn't a scare tactic; it's a call to action. We're diving deep into the heart of 35114, the ZIP code that defines Maylene, to assess its "Lung Cancer Score" – a holistic evaluation of community health, factoring in everything from lifestyle choices to access to resources. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the very breath of life in Maylene.
**The Landscape: A Tapestry of Demographics**
Before we can understand the challenges, we need to understand the people. Maylene, like many communities, is a mosaic. The demographic makeup of 35114 is a key piece of the puzzle. We see a predominantly white population, a significant portion of families, and a growing number of young professionals seeking a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the bustling city of Birmingham. This demographic mix is crucial. Younger families, in particular, often prioritize health and wellness, creating a potential for positive change. However, the presence of older residents, some with a history of smoking, necessitates targeted outreach and support.
Imagine a sunny Saturday morning. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifts from the front porch of a meticulously kept ranch-style home on Stonegate Road. Inside, a young couple, Sarah and David, are planning their day. They're loading up their bikes, eager to explore the trails at the nearby Oak Mountain State Park. Their toddler, Lily, giggles from her car seat, her eyes wide with anticipation. This scene represents the potential for a healthy, active lifestyle that is so crucial in reducing lung cancer risk.
Contrast this with a quiet afternoon on a shaded porch on Highway 31. Mr. Henderson, a retired veteran, sits in his rocking chair, a cigarette smoldering in his hand. He’s seen a lot in his life, and the habit is ingrained. He represents a different challenge, a need for empathetic support and access to cessation resources. Understanding these diverse realities within the community is paramount.
**Places to Live: Shaping the Environment**
The type of housing and the overall environment play a significant role in community health. Maylene offers a variety of housing options, from sprawling single-family homes in developments like Eagle Ridge and Stonegate to more modest residences along the older stretches of Highway 31. The presence of well-maintained parks and green spaces is a significant plus.
Picture this: a late afternoon stroll through the peaceful grounds of the Maylene Community Park. Children are laughing on the swings, teenagers are shooting hoops on the basketball court, and families are enjoying picnics under the shade of the towering pines. This is a vital component of a healthy community. Outdoor recreation encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of belonging – all factors that contribute to a lower risk of lung cancer.
However, we must also acknowledge the potential downsides. The proximity of some homes to busy roads, while offering convenience, can expose residents to air pollution, a known risk factor. The availability of affordable housing is also a critical concern. Financial stress can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including smoking and poor diet, further increasing the risk.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Connection**
The "vibe" of a neighborhood is intangible, but it's powerful. A strong sense of community fosters support, encourages healthy behaviors, and provides a safety net for those struggling with addiction or other health challenges. Maylene, thankfully, has a strong sense of community.
Consider the annual Maylene Day celebration. The town square transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. Food vendors offer delicious treats, local artisans showcase their crafts, and live music fills the air. Neighbors chat, children play, and a sense of unity pervades the atmosphere. This kind of connection is invaluable. It creates a supportive environment where people look out for each other, where they are more likely to encourage healthy choices and offer assistance to those in need.
However, a healthy community is not without its challenges. Social isolation, a growing concern in many areas, can be a significant risk factor. Individuals who feel disconnected from their neighbors may be less likely to seek help when they need it, and more likely to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Maylene: The Building Blocks**
A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of reducing lung cancer risk. This includes:
* **Smoking Cessation:** This is the single most impactful step. Maylene needs robust resources for smoking cessation, including free counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups.
* **Healthy Diet:** Access to fresh, affordable produce is essential. Farmers markets, community gardens, and nutrition education programs can all play a role.
* **Regular Physical Activity:** Encouraging outdoor recreation, providing safe walking and biking paths, and supporting local sports teams are all vital.
* **Stress Management:** Yoga classes, meditation workshops, and access to mental health services can help residents manage stress, a known risk factor for many health problems.
Imagine a local yoga studio, tucked away in a converted storefront on Highway 31. The soft glow of the setting sun streams through the windows as a group of residents flows through a series of poses, guided by a skilled instructor. This represents a tangible step towards a healthier lifestyle.
**Local Wellness Programs: Filling the Gaps**
Maylene has a chance to shine here. The effectiveness of a community's response to lung cancer risk hinges on the availability and accessibility of local wellness programs. This includes:
* **Smoking Cessation Clinics:** Partnering with local hospitals and healthcare providers to offer free or low-cost smoking cessation programs is crucial.
* **Lung Cancer Screening Initiatives:** Promoting awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines and providing access to low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals is essential.
* **Community Health Fairs:** Organizing regular health fairs that offer free health screenings, educational materials, and access to local resources can be highly effective.
* **Partnerships with Local Businesses:** Encouraging local businesses to promote healthy lifestyles through employee wellness programs and community initiatives can make a significant impact.
Picture a bustling community health fair held in the Maylene Community Park. Local healthcare providers are offering free blood pressure screenings, lung function tests, and educational materials on smoking cessation. Volunteers are handing out brochures on healthy eating and exercise. The air is filled with a sense of hope and optimism.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Benefits**
Maylene is blessed with natural beauty. Oak Mountain State Park, with its hiking trails, lakes, and camping facilities, is a major asset. Promoting outdoor recreation is a key component of a healthy lifestyle.
Imagine a family hiking along the trails of Oak Mountain State Park, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs. The children are pointing out the colorful leaves, and the parents are enjoying the peace and tranquility of nature. This is a powerful image of health and well-being.
Maylene should actively promote outdoor recreation by:
* **Improving and expanding existing trails:** Making trails accessible to all residents, including those with disabilities.
* **Organizing community hiking and biking events:** Encouraging residents to get active and enjoy the outdoors together.
* **Promoting the benefits of outdoor recreation:** Educating residents about the physical and mental health benefits of spending time in nature.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Call to Action**
So, what's the Lung Cancer Score for 35114? It's a work in progress. The foundation is strong: a close-knit community, beautiful surroundings, and a growing awareness of the importance of health and wellness. However, there are challenges: the need for increased access to smoking cessation resources, the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles across all demographics, and the need to address potential environmental risk factors.
The score isn't a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's efforts. By investing in local wellness programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering a strong sense of community, Maylene can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer and create a healthier, more vibrant future for all its residents.
The air in Maylene is already filled with the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Let's work together to ensure that everyone can breathe easy, knowing that their community is committed to their health and well-being. The fight against lung cancer is not just a medical battle; it's a community effort. And in Maylene, the spirit of community is strong. The future is bright, and the breath of life is precious.
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