39573, Perkinston, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.73 percent of the residents in 39573 has some form of health insurance. 33.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39573 would have to travel an average of 19.52 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pearl River County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 410 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi.

## Breathing Easy in Perkinston: A Lung Cancer Score for 39573

The Mississippi sun, a molten coin in the sky, casts long shadows across the quiet lanes of Perkinston, ZIP code 39573. Here, amidst the towering pines and the scent of damp earth, life unfolds at a pace that often feels a world away from the relentless churn of the city. But even in this haven of rural charm, the specter of lung cancer looms. This isn't a place of statistics, but of real people, of families who have built their lives around the rhythms of the land. Understanding the community health landscape in Perkinston is crucial, not just for identifying potential risks, but for celebrating the strengths that can protect its residents. This is our Lung Cancer Score, a deep dive into the heart of 39573.

**The Baseline: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Perkinston, nestled in Stone County, is a tapestry woven with threads of history and heritage. The demographics paint a picture of a close-knit community. The population, hovering around a few thousand, reflects a predominantly white demographic, with a significant percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American. This racial and ethnic diversity is a source of strength, a testament to the resilience of the people who have called this land home for generations.

The landscape itself plays a significant role in shaping community health. The air, often thick with the scent of pine and the earthy fragrance of the forest floor, is generally clean, a stark contrast to the polluted skies of more industrialized areas. The abundance of green space, from the sprawling forests to the meticulously kept yards, offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.

However, rural communities often face unique challenges. Access to healthcare can be limited. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are a drive away, presenting a potential barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment. Economic factors also play a role. The area’s economy, historically tied to agriculture and forestry, may present limited job opportunities and income disparities, which can impact access to healthy food and healthcare.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**

To truly understand the community health in Perkinston, you need to understand its soul. The neighborhood vibe is one of genuine connection. You see it in the friendly waves from passing pickup trucks, the porch-sitting conversations that drift on the evening breeze, and the unwavering support during times of hardship.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered by years of tending her garden, waving to young Ethan as he pedals his bike past her porch. Ethan, a bright-eyed boy with a boundless energy, is the son of a local carpenter, a man known for his unwavering work ethic and his dedication to his family. This is the fabric of Perkinston: a network of interconnected lives, woven together by shared experiences and a deep-seated sense of belonging.

The local churches, with their soaring steeples and welcoming doors, serve as community hubs. They offer not only spiritual guidance but also practical support, from food drives to assistance with medical expenses. These institutions are cornerstones of community resilience, providing a safety net for those in need.

**Places to Live: Where Home is More Than Just a House**

The homes of Perkinston are as varied as the people who inhabit them. You'll find sprawling ranch-style houses with manicured lawns, cozy cottages nestled amongst the trees, and modest mobile homes that represent the hard work and dedication of their owners.

Think of the old Victorian house on Main Street, its porch swing creaking gently in the wind. It has been the backdrop for countless family gatherings, the scene of laughter and tears, a testament to the enduring power of family. Or picture the newly built homes in the developing subdivisions, a sign of growth and a promise of new beginnings.

The quality of housing, the access to clean water, and the presence of environmental hazards all play a role in community health. Ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing is a crucial step in building a healthier Perkinston.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Perkinston: Embracing the Outdoors**

Perkinston offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital ingredient in a healthy lifestyle. The forests and waterways beckon, offering a chance to connect with nature and reap the benefits of physical activity.

Picture a crisp autumn morning, the air filled with the scent of fallen leaves. A group of friends gathers at the local park, their laughter echoing through the trees as they prepare for a hike. The trails, winding through the pine forests, offer a chance to breathe in the fresh air, to feel the sun on your skin, and to escape the stresses of daily life.

The Pearl River, a ribbon of shimmering water that snakes through the landscape, provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the beauty of the natural world. These activities, when practiced safely, can contribute significantly to overall well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation of Health**

While the rural setting of Perkinston offers natural advantages, access to wellness programs is essential for promoting community health and mitigating the risks associated with lung cancer.

Consider the local community center, a hub of activity that offers exercise classes, health screenings, and educational workshops. These programs, often supported by local volunteers and community organizations, provide vital resources for residents of all ages.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is particularly important. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing support for those who want to quit can significantly reduce the risk of this devastating disease.

The local schools play a critical role in promoting healthy habits among young people. Health education programs, coupled with opportunities for physical activity, can help to instill healthy behaviors from an early age.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

Assessing the lung cancer risk in Perkinston requires a holistic approach, considering not only the environmental and lifestyle factors but also the social determinants of health.

**Factors that contribute to a higher risk:**

* **Smoking rates:** The prevalence of smoking within the community is a significant factor. Targeted smoking cessation programs are crucial.
* **Access to healthcare:** Limited access to primary care physicians and specialized medical facilities can delay diagnosis and treatment.
* **Environmental factors:** Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon testing and mitigation programs are essential.
* **Socioeconomic factors:** Poverty and lack of access to resources can lead to poor health outcomes.

**Factors that contribute to a lower risk:**

* **Outdoor recreation:** The abundance of green space and opportunities for physical activity promote overall health and well-being.
* **Strong community ties:** The close-knit nature of the community fosters a sense of support and resilience.
* **Clean air:** The generally clean air quality in the area reduces exposure to air pollutants, a known risk factor for lung cancer.
* **Local wellness programs:** The presence of community centers, health screenings, and educational workshops can help to promote healthy behaviors and early detection.

**The Path Forward: Breathing Easier in Perkinston**

Perkinston, like any community, faces challenges. But it also possesses incredible strengths. The key to reducing the risk of lung cancer lies in building upon these strengths and addressing the areas where improvement is needed.

This means:

* **Expanding access to healthcare:** Supporting the local healthcare providers and advocating for increased access to specialized medical services.
* **Promoting smoking cessation:** Implementing and expanding smoking cessation programs, targeting both adults and young people.
* **Raising awareness about radon:** Educating residents about the risks of radon and providing resources for testing and mitigation.
* **Supporting community wellness programs:** Investing in local community centers and supporting programs that promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Fostering a culture of prevention:** Encouraging regular health screenings and promoting early detection of lung cancer.

The journey towards a healthier Perkinston is not a sprint, but a marathon. It requires the collective effort of the entire community, from the local government to the individual residents. By working together, by embracing the strengths of the community, and by addressing the challenges head-on, the people of Perkinston can breathe easier, knowing that they are building a healthier and more vibrant future for themselves and for generations to come. The Mississippi sun will continue to shine, but now, it will illuminate a community taking proactive steps to protect its most precious asset: its health.