35586, Sulligent, Alabama Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.57 percent of the residents in 35586 has some form of health insurance. 46.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.91 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35586 would have to travel an average of 19.11 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Northwest Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 251 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586)

The humid Alabama air hangs heavy over Sulligent, a town etched into the rolling hills of Lamar County. Here, where the scent of pine needles mingles with the faint aroma of woodsmoke from a distant chimney, the rhythms of life are dictated by the seasons, the land, and the close-knit community. But beneath the surface of small-town charm, a silent threat lurks, one that touches every life in ZIP Code 35586: the specter of lung cancer. This isn't a statistic; it's a story woven into the fabric of Sulligent, a story we'll explore to understand the community health landscape and the potential for breathing easier.

This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the people. It’s about Ms. Betty, whose porch swing creaks with the weight of decades spent watching the world go by, and whose cough, though dismissed as a "smoker's hack" for years, now echoes with a deeper, more ominous timbre. It’s about young David, whose boundless energy on the baseball field is now tempered by the knowledge that his father is battling the disease. It’s about the unseen, the unheard, the potential future battles fought in the quiet corners of this Alabama town.

**Demographics: A Snapshot of the Community**

Before we delve deeper, let's paint a picture of the people who call 35586 home. According to the latest census data, Sulligent boasts a population of roughly 2,000 residents. The community is predominantly white, with a significant African American population contributing to the rich tapestry of the town. The median age skews slightly older, reflecting the rural nature of the area and the tendency for younger generations to seek opportunities elsewhere. The economic landscape is modest, with a significant portion of the population employed in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. Poverty rates are higher than the national average, and access to quality healthcare can be a challenge, particularly for those without reliable transportation or comprehensive insurance.

This demographic profile is crucial. It sets the stage for understanding the risk factors associated with lung cancer. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and lifestyle choices are all intertwined, creating a complex web that influences community health.

**The Shadow of Risk: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk within a specific community. In Sulligent, several key elements shape this score:

* **Smoking Prevalence:** This is the elephant in the room. Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While precise data for Sulligent is difficult to obtain, anecdotal evidence and national trends suggest that smoking rates in rural areas, particularly among certain demographics, tend to be higher than in urban centers. This is often linked to factors like limited access to cessation programs, a culture that normalizes tobacco use, and the stress of economic hardship. Imagine a group of men gathering at the local gas station, swapping stories, and lighting up cigarettes after a long day's work. The casual acceptance of smoking, passed down through generations, is a significant contributor to the Lung Cancer Score.
* **Environmental Factors:** The air we breathe plays a vital role. While Sulligent benefits from its rural setting, potential environmental hazards exist. Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes, is a significant concern in many parts of Alabama. The presence of asbestos in older buildings, and potential exposure from certain agricultural practices, could also contribute to the risk. Consider the old mill, its weathered walls a testament to a bygone era. The dust and potential hazards within its walls represent a hidden threat.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Early detection is critical. Timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment can dramatically improve outcomes for lung cancer patients. In Sulligent, access to healthcare is a complex issue. The town has a small clinic, but residents often need to travel to larger cities like Tuscaloosa or Birmingham for specialized care. Transportation challenges, insurance coverage limitations, and a shortage of specialists can all hinder access to the care needed to combat the disease. Picture Ms. Betty, hesitant to drive the long distance to the city for a check-up, putting it off until the cough becomes unbearable.
* **Lifestyle Choices:** Diet, exercise, and overall well-being play a crucial role in lung health. A sedentary lifestyle, coupled with a diet high in processed foods, can weaken the immune system and increase vulnerability to disease. Opportunities for physical activity are present, but the lack of readily accessible parks and recreational facilities can be a barrier. The local community center, a hub of activity, could play a more significant role in promoting healthy lifestyles.
* **Awareness and Education:** Knowledge is power. A lack of awareness about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of screening can lead to delayed diagnosis and poorer outcomes. The local community needs educational programs, outreach initiatives, and accessible information to empower residents to take control of their health.

**Places to Live: Where the Community Resides**

Sulligent offers a range of housing options, from modest single-family homes to more spacious properties with acreage. The town's "neighborhood vibe" is generally friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of community pride.

* **Downtown:** The heart of Sulligent, with its historic buildings and local businesses. Living downtown offers proximity to essential services, but may be more exposed to potential environmental hazards.
* **Residential Areas:** Quiet streets lined with houses, often with yards and gardens. These areas offer a sense of peace and security, but may be further from healthcare facilities.
* **Rural Properties:** Homes nestled on larger plots of land, offering privacy and a connection to nature. However, these properties may require more travel for services and healthcare.

The choice of where to live can influence exposure to risk factors. Proximity to industrial areas, the presence of radon in the soil, and access to healthy food options can all vary depending on location.

**Breathing Easier: Strategies for a Healthier Future**

The Lung Cancer Score in Sulligent isn't fixed. It's a dynamic measure, influenced by the actions of the community. Several strategies can help improve the score and foster a healthier future:

* **Local Wellness Programs:** The community needs robust wellness programs tailored to the specific needs of its residents. These programs should focus on smoking cessation, promoting healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity. The local clinic could partner with community organizations to offer free or low-cost classes on nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Imagine a weekly walking group, organized by the community center, exploring the scenic backroads of Sulligent.
* **Community Outreach:** Raising awareness about lung cancer is paramount. Public service announcements, educational workshops, and community events can help educate residents about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. The local church could host a health fair, inviting healthcare professionals to provide free screenings and information.
* **Advocacy and Policy:** The community can advocate for policies that support public health. This includes supporting smoke-free policies, promoting access to affordable healthcare, and advocating for environmental protections. The local government could partner with organizations to secure funding for radon testing and mitigation programs.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Sulligent is blessed with natural beauty. Investing in parks, trails, and recreational facilities can encourage physical activity and improve overall well-being. The creation of a walking trail around the town square would provide a safe and accessible space for exercise.
* **Collaboration and Partnerships:** Addressing the complex challenges of community health requires collaboration. The local clinic, the community center, the schools, the churches, and local businesses must work together to create a cohesive network of support. Imagine a partnership between the local school and a local restaurant, offering healthy meal options for students and families.

**The Future of Sulligent: A Breath of Hope**

The story of lung cancer in Sulligent is not one of despair. It's a call to action. By understanding the challenges, embracing the opportunities, and working together, the residents of 35586 can create a healthier future. The Lung Cancer Score is a reminder that community health is not just about individual choices; it's about the collective well-being of the entire community. It's about ensuring that Ms. Betty can enjoy her porch swing for many years to come, and that David can watch his father thrive. It's about breathing easier, together, in the heart of Alabama. The future of Sulligent, and the breath of its people, depends on it.