27861, Parmele, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27861, Parmele, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.23 percent of the residents in 27861 has some form of health insurance. 54.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.15 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27861 would have to travel an average of 13.69 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Martin General Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,397 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27861, Parmele, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Parmele, NC (ZIP Code 27861)

The humid North Carolina air hangs thick over Parmele, a town etched into the fertile heartland of Martin County. Fields of tobacco, once the lifeblood of this community, now share space with soybeans, cotton, and the persistent whisper of change. In the quiet corners of this rural landscape, a story unfolds, a story of community health, resilience, and the ever-present shadow of lung cancer. Today, we're taking a deep breath and examining the lung cancer score for ZIP code 27861, a snapshot of the community's well-being, and a roadmap for a healthier future.

**Understanding the Score: More Than Just Numbers**

A "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a simple numerical value. It's a composite of factors, a tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle choices, access to healthcare, and the very air that residents breathe. It's a reflection of the community's vulnerability and its strength, a measure of its past and a guide to its future. In 27861, we'll consider this score holistically, understanding that it's not just about the prevalence of the disease, but about the factors that contribute to it.

**Demographics: The Faces of Parmele**

Parmele, with its roughly 300 residents, is a tight-knit community. The air of familiarity is palpable. The demographic profile of 27861 is predominantly African American, a heritage deeply rooted in the soil of the region. Generations have lived and worked here, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the land. Median household income is lower than the state average, a factor that can influence access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, her hands weathered from years of tending her garden, now slowing down, but still offering a warm smile to anyone passing by. She’s a pillar of the community, a repository of local history, and a testament to the strength of this place. Her well-being, and the well-being of her neighbors, is the heart of our assessment.

**Places to Live: Homes, History, and Hidden Hazards**

The homes in Parmele are a mix of architectural styles, reflecting the evolution of the community. Some are historic, with the charm of a bygone era, while others are more modern, reflecting the needs of a changing population. The age and condition of housing can impact the Lung Cancer Score. Older homes, for example, may have been built with materials containing asbestos or lead, posing potential health risks.

Consider the stately old house on Main Street, its porch sagging slightly, its paint peeling in the relentless sun. It whispers stories of families and generations. Its condition, and the potential for environmental hazards within, is a piece of the puzzle.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community, Connection, and Challenges**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. In Parmele, the sense of community is strong. Neighbors look out for each other. Churches serve as centers of social life and support. However, the challenges are real. The economic disparities can create stress, which, in turn, can impact health. The availability of fresh, affordable food can be limited, potentially contributing to unhealthy diets and increased risk factors.

Picture the lively gathering at the local church, laughter echoing through the air, the aroma of home-cooked meals wafting from the kitchen. This is the heart of Parmele, but it also highlights the need for resources and support to ensure everyone has access to the healthiest possible life.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Parmele: A Balancing Act**

The concept of a "healthy lifestyle" is complex, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. In Parmele, it means finding a balance between tradition and progress, between the demands of life and the pursuit of well-being.

Smoking rates, a major contributor to lung cancer, are a critical factor. While the prevalence of smoking is declining nationally, it's essential to understand the local trends. The legacy of tobacco farming in the region, and the associated social norms, can influence smoking behaviors.

Consider the young man, returning from a long day of work, pausing on his porch to enjoy a cigarette. The habit is ingrained, a part of his routine. Breaking it requires support, education, and access to resources.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and the Great Outdoors**

Parmele offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can positively impact the Lung Cancer Score. The surrounding countryside, with its fields and forests, provides a natural playground.

Imagine the children playing in the park, their laughter filling the air. This is a space for physical activity, a place to connect with nature, and a reminder of the importance of fresh air and a healthy environment.

**Local Wellness Programs: Filling the Gaps**

The presence and accessibility of local wellness programs are critical. These programs can provide education about lung cancer prevention, smoking cessation support, and access to screenings. The availability of healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic facilities, is also a significant factor.

Picture the local health clinic, the nurses and doctors working tirelessly to provide care. The clinic is a vital resource, but its effectiveness depends on funding, staffing, and its ability to reach the entire community.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Factors**

The quality of the air is a crucial, and often overlooked, component of the Lung Cancer Score. Environmental factors, such as exposure to pollutants, can increase the risk of lung cancer. The proximity to industrial sites, agricultural practices, and even the use of wood-burning stoves can impact air quality.

Consider the farmer, working his fields, exposed to pesticides and other chemicals. Understanding the environmental risks and implementing protective measures is essential.

**Specific Considerations for 27861**

* **Smoking Cessation:** Implementing and promoting robust smoking cessation programs, tailored to the specific needs of the community, is paramount. This includes offering free or low-cost counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups.
* **Early Detection:** Increasing access to lung cancer screening programs, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., those with a history of smoking), is crucial. This involves educating the community about the benefits of screening and removing any barriers to access.
* **Healthcare Access:** Improving access to healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic facilities, is essential. This may involve recruiting healthcare providers to the area, expanding clinic hours, and providing transportation assistance.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Raising awareness about environmental risks, such as air pollution and exposure to hazardous materials, is important. This involves educating the community about potential hazards and advocating for policies that protect the environment.
* **Healthy Eating:** Promoting healthy eating habits by increasing access to fresh, affordable food options is essential. This may involve supporting local farmers' markets, establishing community gardens, and providing nutrition education.
* **Community Engagement:** Fostering a strong sense of community and encouraging social connections can improve overall well-being. This involves supporting local organizations, promoting community events, and creating opportunities for social interaction.

**Calculating the Score: A Complex Equation**

Calculating the precise Lung Cancer Score for 27861 is a complex undertaking. It requires data from various sources, including local health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and community organizations. It also requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

**The Road Ahead: Building a Healthier Parmele**

The Lung Cancer Score for 27861 is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health and its commitment to well-being. By addressing the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk, by fostering a strong sense of community, and by embracing a proactive approach to health, Parmele can build a healthier future.

The journey to a healthier Parmele is a collaborative effort. It requires the involvement of residents, healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers. It requires a commitment to education, prevention, and early detection. It requires a willingness to confront the challenges and celebrate the successes.

Imagine the future: a community where the air is cleaner, where access to healthcare is equitable, where healthy lifestyles are the norm, and where the shadow of lung cancer is diminished. This is the vision, the goal, and the promise of a healthier Parmele, a community breathing easy.