35233, Birmingham, Alabama Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35233, Birmingham, Alabama is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.49 percent of the residents in 35233 has some form of health insurance. 13.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35233 would have to travel an average of 0.12 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, University Of Alabama Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,743 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35233, Birmingham, Alabama.

## The Breath of Birmingham: Unveiling the Lung Cancer Score in 35233

The air hangs thick and humid over Birmingham, Alabama, a familiar weight in the Magic City. But beneath the surface of Southern charm and vibrant history lies a complex tapestry of community health, one that we'll unravel in ZIP code 35233. This area, encompassing a slice of Roebuck, parts of Eastwood, and the edges of Center Point, holds a story etched in brick, asphalt, and the very breath we take. And that story, when viewed through the lens of lung cancer risk, reveals a compelling picture of challenges, opportunities, and the potential for a healthier future.

Forget sterile statistics for a moment. Imagine the aroma of fried catfish and collard greens wafting from a bustling soul food restaurant on Oporto Avenue. Picture children laughing, their energy echoing through the playgrounds of Roebuck Park, the scent of freshly cut grass mingling with the exhaust of passing cars. This is the raw, unfiltered reality of 35233, a community grappling with the same health disparities that plague many urban areas across the nation, but with a unique Southern flavor.

**The Scorecard: What We're Measuring**

We're not just talking about a number here. The "Lung Cancer Score" for 35233 isn't a single, definitive metric. Instead, it's a holistic assessment, a composite portrait painted with brushstrokes of demographics, environmental factors, access to care, and lifestyle choices. It's a deep dive into the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk, offering a nuanced understanding of the community's vulnerabilities and strengths.

**Demographic Whispers: The People of 35233**

The demographic makeup of 35233 is a critical piece of the puzzle. The area is predominantly African American, a population that, statistically, faces a higher incidence of lung cancer and often experiences poorer outcomes. This isn't due to inherent biological differences, but rather, a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, historical injustices, and unequal access to healthcare.

Consider Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident of Roebuck. She remembers a time when industry thrived in the area, offering jobs but also contributing to air pollution. Her father, a hardworking man, smoked cigarettes for decades, a common practice in his generation. Now, she worries about her own health and the health of her grandchildren, keenly aware of the legacy of environmental and lifestyle choices that impact her community.

The median income in 35233 is lower than the Birmingham average, and the percentage of residents living below the poverty line is significant. This economic reality translates into limited access to quality healthcare, including preventative screenings and early detection of lung cancer. The stress of financial insecurity can also contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking, further elevating risk.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Influences**

The environment plays a crucial role in the lung cancer equation. Air quality, exposure to pollutants, and proximity to industrial sites all contribute to the overall risk. In 35233, the legacy of industry, while providing employment opportunities, has left its mark on the landscape.

Think of the industrial corridors that border the area, the constant hum of traffic on major thoroughfares, and the potential for exposure to particulate matter and other air pollutants. These environmental factors, coupled with the potential for radon exposure in older homes, create a complex web of risk factors.

Imagine Mr. Davis, a retired mechanic who spent years working in a garage, exposed to fumes and chemicals. Now, he enjoys gardening in his backyard, but he's also acutely aware of the invisible dangers that may linger in the air.

**Access to Care: A Critical Bridge**

Access to quality healthcare is a vital component of any community's health profile. In 35233, the availability of affordable, accessible healthcare services is a key determinant of lung cancer outcomes.

Consider the challenges of navigating the healthcare system: the cost of insurance, the availability of primary care physicians, and the proximity to specialized cancer treatment centers. The lack of transportation, the difficulty of taking time off work for appointments, and the cultural barriers that can sometimes exist between patients and providers all contribute to disparities in care.

Picture Ms. Williams, a single mother working two jobs to make ends meet. Finding time for regular checkups and preventative screenings is a constant struggle. The fear of a serious illness, coupled with the practical hurdles of accessing care, can create a dangerous cycle of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

**Lifestyle Choices: The Power of Personal Decisions**

Lifestyle choices, while deeply personal, are often influenced by the environment and the resources available within a community. Smoking, of course, is the most significant modifiable risk factor for lung cancer.

Think of the corner stores in 35233, where cigarettes are readily available. The pervasive influence of tobacco advertising, the social pressures that can encourage smoking, and the addictive nature of nicotine all contribute to the prevalence of smoking within the community.

Consider the efforts of local organizations to promote smoking cessation programs, the challenges of reaching those who are addicted, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for those who are trying to quit.

Beyond smoking, other lifestyle factors contribute to lung cancer risk. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption can all play a role in reducing risk.

**Neighborhood Vibe and Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room**

The "neighborhood vibe" of 35233 is a mix of resilience, community spirit, and a deep-seated love for the area. The presence of parks, community centers, and local businesses contributes to the overall quality of life.

Roebuck Park, with its walking trails and green spaces, offers a valuable opportunity for outdoor recreation. The presence of community gardens and farmers' markets can promote access to fresh, healthy food.

Imagine the joy of a community picnic at Roebuck Park, the laughter of children playing, and the sense of belonging that comes from sharing a meal with neighbors. These moments of connection and community are vital for building resilience and promoting overall well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical indicator of a community's commitment to health. In 35233, organizations are working to address the challenges of lung cancer risk through education, prevention, and support.

Consider the efforts of local churches, community centers, and healthcare providers to offer smoking cessation programs, health screenings, and educational workshops. The effectiveness of these programs depends on their accessibility, their cultural sensitivity, and their ability to connect with the needs of the community.

Imagine the impact of a free lung cancer screening clinic, the support provided by a cancer survivor support group, and the power of community health workers who are trusted members of the community.

**Places to Live: A Matter of Perspective**

The "places to live" within 35233 are as diverse as its residents. From well-established neighborhoods with tree-lined streets to more affordable housing options, the area offers a range of living experiences.

The availability of affordable housing, the proximity to schools and jobs, and the overall safety of the neighborhood all contribute to the quality of life.

Consider the importance of community planning initiatives that promote healthy living, such as the creation of walking trails, the development of green spaces, and the revitalization of local businesses.

**The Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the "Lung Cancer Score" for 35233? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment that reveals both challenges and opportunities. It highlights the vulnerabilities of the community, the disparities in access to care, and the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors.

But it also reveals the resilience of the community, the dedication of local organizations, and the potential for positive change.

The score serves as a call to action. It's a reminder that we must:

* **Invest in prevention:** Promote smoking cessation programs, encourage healthy lifestyles, and educate residents about the risks of lung cancer.
* **Improve access to care:** Expand access to affordable healthcare, provide free or low-cost screenings, and address the barriers that prevent people from seeking timely medical attention.
* **Address environmental concerns:** Advocate for cleaner air, reduce exposure to pollutants, and promote responsible industrial practices.
* **Empower the community:** Support local organizations, foster community partnerships, and create a culture of health and well-being.

The breath of Birmingham, particularly in 35233, is a story of resilience, a story of hope, and a story that is still being written. By understanding the complexities of lung cancer risk and by working together, we can help create a healthier future for all. The air, once thick with challenges, can become a source of strength, a symbol of a community breathing easier, together.