The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 83.88 percent of the residents in 39574 has some form of health insurance. 36.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.28 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 39574 would have to travel an average of 17.07 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Va Gulf Coast Healthcare System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,348 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi.
Health Scores in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi
Lung Cancer Score | 34 |
---|---|
People Score | 58 |
Provider Score | 53 |
Hospital Score | 15 |
Travel Score | 43 |
39574 | Saucier | Mississippi | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 46.94 | 46.94 | 46.45 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 11.81 | 11.81 | 12.90 |
Medicare | 18.94 | 18.94 | 19.05 |
Medicaid | 18.40 | 18.40 | 23.14 |
TRICARE | 6.47 | 6.47 | 3.93 |
VA | 46.13 | 46.13 | 52.98 |
Percent Insured in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
39574 | Saucier | Mississippi | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 93.08 | 93.08 | 94.53 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 75.32 | 75.32 | 81.79 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.64 |
## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Saucier (39574)
The humid Mississippi air hangs thick and heavy, a familiar embrace for the residents of Saucier, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39574). It’s a place where the scent of pine needles mingles with the salty tang of the Gulf, a place where front porches are for conversation and the rhythm of life slows to a comfortable drawl. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic community, a silent threat lurks: lung cancer. This isn't a scare tactic; it's a reality. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives of the people who call Saucier home.
This "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade, but a deeper dive into the community health landscape of 39574. It's an assessment, a conversation starter, and a call to action, all rolled into one. We'll explore the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk, the resources available, and the potential for building a healthier future, one breath at a time.
**Understanding the Terrain: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**
Saucier, a census-designated place in Harrison County, offers a patchwork of living experiences. The population is relatively small, with a close-knit feel that permeates the local businesses and community gatherings. The demographics are largely white, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 65. This aging population is a key consideration, as age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.
The landscape itself plays a role. The proximity to the Gulf Coast brings the allure of beaches and outdoor recreation, but also exposes residents to potential environmental hazards. The air quality, influenced by factors like industrial activity and seasonal wildfires, is a critical piece of the puzzle. We'll delve deeper into these environmental influences as we go.
**A Breath of Fresh Air: The Impact of Lifestyle**
The foundation of any community's health rests on the choices its residents make. In Saucier, the lifestyle choices are a mixed bag, with both strengths and areas for improvement.
Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident of Saucier. She’s a fixture at the local farmers market, her basket overflowing with fresh produce. She walks her dog, Buster, every morning, enjoying the quiet beauty of the surrounding woods. This is the picture of healthy living, the kind of lifestyle that bolsters resilience and reduces the risk of disease.
But then there’s Mr. John, who spent his working life in the shipyards. He enjoys a smoke with his coffee every morning, a habit ingrained over decades. He's a veteran, and like many veterans, he may have been exposed to asbestos during his service. This is the other side of the coin, the shadow of unhealthy habits and historical exposures that cast a long shadow over the community's health.
Smoking, of course, is the elephant in the room. It’s the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While national trends show a decline in smoking rates, the prevalence in Saucier needs specific attention. The availability of tobacco products, the social acceptance of smoking, and the lack of accessible cessation programs all contribute to the problem.
Beyond smoking, diet and exercise are crucial. The accessibility of healthy food options, the presence of safe spaces for physical activity, and the overall awareness of the importance of a balanced lifestyle are all critical factors. The local grocery stores, the availability of parks and walking trails, and the prevalence of fast-food restaurants all shape the health landscape.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where We Live and How We Live**
The "neighborhood vibe" is more than just aesthetics; it's the pulse of the community. It's the feeling of safety, the sense of belonging, and the availability of resources that contribute to overall well-being.
Consider the quiet streets of Magnolia Estates, where well-kept homes line the roads. The community is tight-knit, with neighbors looking out for each other. This sense of social cohesion can be a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can negatively impact health.
Contrast this with the more isolated areas, where access to healthcare and social support may be limited. The availability of transportation, the presence of community centers, and the overall level of social engagement all play a role in shaping the neighborhood vibe.
The quality of housing also matters. Exposure to mold, radon, and other environmental hazards within the home can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. The age of the housing stock, the presence of lead-based paint, and the access to home maintenance services are all important considerations.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing In the Good**
Saucier's natural beauty offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The nearby Gulf Coast beaches, the sprawling forests, and the numerous parks and trails provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Imagine a family spending a Saturday afternoon at the Harrison County Parks and Recreation facilities. Children are laughing as they play, parents are enjoying the fresh air, and everyone is connecting with nature. This is the kind of activity that promotes physical and mental well-being, bolstering the community's health.
However, access to these recreational opportunities is not always equal. The availability of transportation, the cost of recreational activities, and the presence of safe spaces for outdoor play are all crucial factors. The community needs to ensure that all residents, regardless of their income or background, have access to the benefits of outdoor recreation.
**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**
The presence of local wellness programs is a critical indicator of a community's commitment to health. These programs can range from smoking cessation classes to free health screenings to educational workshops on healthy eating.
The availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists, is also essential. The proximity to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, such as the Gulfport Memorial Hospital, is a significant advantage.
The role of local organizations, such as churches, community centers, and schools, is also crucial. These organizations can serve as hubs for health education, support groups, and outreach programs.
Imagine a community health fair, hosted by a local church. Residents are lining up for free health screenings, learning about lung cancer prevention, and connecting with local healthcare providers. This is the kind of grassroots effort that can make a real difference in the community's health.
**The Environmental Factor: Air Quality and Beyond**
The environment plays a significant role in lung cancer risk. Air quality, exposure to radon, and other environmental hazards can all contribute to the disease.
Saucier's proximity to the Gulf Coast means that residents are exposed to the potential for air pollution from industrial activity and seasonal wildfires. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into homes and increase the risk of lung cancer.
The community needs to be proactive in addressing these environmental concerns. This includes monitoring air quality, promoting radon testing and mitigation, and educating residents about the risks.
**A Call to Action: Breathing Life into a Healthier Saucier**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for Saucier (39574) is not a final verdict, but a starting point. It's a call to action, a challenge to the community to build a healthier future.
Here are some specific recommendations:
* **Prioritize Smoking Cessation:** Increase access to affordable and effective smoking cessation programs. Promote the use of nicotine replacement therapy and other evidence-based treatments. Partner with local businesses to create smoke-free environments.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Increase access to healthy food options. Create safe spaces for physical activity, such as walking trails and parks. Promote health education in schools and community centers.
* **Enhance Environmental Awareness:** Educate residents about the risks of radon and other environmental hazards. Encourage radon testing and mitigation. Monitor air quality and advocate for policies that protect the environment.
* **Strengthen Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, local organizations, and community leaders. Organize community health fairs and educational workshops. Support the development of local wellness programs.
* **Increase Access to Healthcare:** Ensure that all residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare. Promote early detection through lung cancer screenings. Advocate for policies that support healthcare access.
The residents of Saucier are resilient, resourceful, and deeply connected to their community. By working together, they can create a healthier future, one breath at a time. This "Lung Cancer Score" is not a judgment, but an invitation to breathe life into a brighter tomorrow.
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