35544, Beaverton, Alabama Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35544, Beaverton, Alabama is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.98 percent of the residents in 35544 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 59.45 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35544 would have to travel an average of 11.52 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Northwest Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 396 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35544, Beaverton, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Beaverton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35544)

The air hangs thick and humid in Beaverton, Alabama, a familiar embrace for those who call this slice of Lamar County home. It’s a quiet town, the kind where porch swings creak in rhythm with the cicadas, and the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the lingering aroma of barbecue. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic existence lies a complex tapestry of community health, a reality we’ll explore through the lens of lung cancer risk, weaving together demographics, lifestyle, and the very pulse of Beaverton’s spirit.

**Understanding the Score: A Breath of Fresh Air (and Potential Hazards)**

Before we dive in, let’s clarify our mission. This isn’t a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" with a rigid number. Instead, we’re crafting a narrative, a community health portrait based on factors that influence lung cancer risk. We'll consider the good, the bad, and the in-between, painting a picture that encourages awareness and, hopefully, empowers residents to breathe a little easier.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of Beaverton’s Heartbeat**

ZIP Code 35544 encompasses a relatively small area, a mosaic of rural landscapes and pockets of residential life. According to recent estimates, the population hovers around a few thousand, a close-knit community where generations often intertwine. The median age skews older than the national average, a demographic that inherently carries a higher risk for age-related health issues, including lung cancer.

The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of African American residents. Socioeconomic factors are crucial. Beaverton, like many rural communities, faces economic challenges. Lower median household incomes and limited access to healthcare can exacerbate health disparities. This is a reality that demands attention, as financial strain often leads to delayed medical care and preventative measures.

**Vignette: The Whispers of the Old Mill**

Imagine the old mill, its weathered timbers whispering tales of generations past. It stands sentinel on the edge of town, a silent witness to the changing seasons. The air around it, once thick with the scent of sawdust, now carries the fainter aroma of decay. The mill, a symbol of Beaverton’s history, also represents the potential for exposure to environmental hazards. Dust and particulate matter, remnants of its industrial past, could linger in the air, impacting respiratory health.

**Lifestyle Choices: The Smoke and the Sunshine**

Lifestyle choices play a significant role in lung cancer risk. Smoking, of course, is the elephant in the room. While smoking rates are declining nationally, they remain a concern in many rural communities. The prevalence of tobacco use in Beaverton is an area that warrants careful consideration.

**Vignette: The Corner Store Conversation**

The aroma of coffee and freshly baked biscuits wafts from the corner store, the heart of Beaverton’s social life. Locals gather here, swapping stories and catching up on the day's events. Imagine a group of men, gathered around a table, sharing a cup of joe and a cigarette. The casual ease with which they light up, the acceptance of the habit, speaks volumes about the ingrained nature of tobacco use in some circles. This isn’t a judgment, but an observation, a starting point for understanding the challenge.

Beyond smoking, other lifestyle factors influence lung health. Diet and exercise are critical. Access to fresh, healthy food can be limited in rural areas, potentially leading to a diet lacking in essential nutrients. The availability of recreational opportunities also plays a role.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty, and the Challenges**

Beaverton, blessed with the natural beauty of the Alabama landscape, offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and wooded areas, invites exploration. Hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the fresh air are readily available.

**Vignette: The River's Embrace**

Picture a family, laughing as they cast their lines into the cool waters of the local river. The sun warms their faces as they enjoy a day of fishing, a healthy activity that connects them with nature. This is the positive side of Beaverton’s lifestyle, the chance to breathe in clean air and embrace the outdoors.

However, the same environment can present challenges. Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as agricultural chemicals or wood smoke from fireplaces, can pose risks. Awareness of these potential hazards is crucial.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The good news is that Beaverton isn't standing still. The community is likely home to local wellness programs, though they might not be as readily advertised as in larger cities. These programs, often run by the local health department or community organizations, can be lifelines.

**Vignette: The Community Center Gathering**

Imagine a community center, buzzing with activity. A health fair is underway, offering free screenings and educational materials. Local nurses and volunteers are providing information on smoking cessation, healthy eating, and the importance of regular checkups. This is where the seeds of change are sown, where residents gain access to the resources they need to improve their health.

**Places to Live: Where the Air is Freshest (and the Risks are Highest)**

The type of housing and the surrounding environment can also influence lung cancer risk. Older homes, particularly those built before asbestos regulations, may pose a risk. Proximity to industrial sites or major roadways can also impact air quality.

**Vignette: The Quiet Street**

Picture a quiet street, lined with modest homes. The air feels still, the only sound the gentle rustle of leaves. This is the heart of Beaverton, where families build their lives. But even in this seemingly tranquil setting, potential risks may exist. The age of the homes, the presence of mold or other environmental hazards, are all factors to consider.

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Community, a Need for Connection**

The neighborhood vibe in Beaverton is one of close-knit community. Neighbors know each other, and support is often readily available. This sense of connection is a valuable asset.

**Vignette: The Front Porch Conversation**

Imagine two neighbors, sitting on their front porches, sharing stories and laughter. This is the essence of Beaverton, the human connection that binds the community together. This sense of community can be harnessed to promote health and well-being. Encouraging open conversations about health concerns, organizing support groups, and fostering a culture of preventative care can make a real difference.

**Breathing Easier: A Call to Action**

So, what does this all mean for the “Lung Cancer Score” in Beaverton? It's not a simple number, but a complex tapestry woven with threads of demographics, lifestyle, and community spirit.

**Key Areas for Focus:**

* **Smoking Cessation:** Aggressively promote and expand smoking cessation programs. Partner with local healthcare providers to offer support and resources.
* **Early Detection:** Increase awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines, especially for those at higher risk.
* **Healthy Lifestyle Promotion:** Encourage healthy eating habits and physical activity. Support local farmers' markets and community gardens.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Educate residents about potential environmental hazards and ways to mitigate risks.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster open communication about health concerns and create a supportive environment for those affected by lung cancer.

**The Future is in the Air**

Beaverton, Alabama, has the potential to breathe easier. By acknowledging the challenges, embracing the opportunities, and working together, the community can build a healthier future. This requires a collaborative effort, a commitment from individuals, community leaders, and healthcare providers. It's about fostering a culture of prevention, early detection, and support. It’s about ensuring that the air in Beaverton is not just humid, but also clean, healthy, and filled with the promise of a long and vibrant life. The "Lung Cancer Score" in Beaverton isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the very breath of life, and the power of a community to protect it.