28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 28340 has some form of health insurance. 57.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28340 would have to travel an average of 12.21 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Southeastern Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,305 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)

The air hangs thick and sweet in Fairmont, North Carolina, a town stitched together by the languid flow of the Lumber River and the resilient spirit of its people. Here, nestled in the heart of Robeson County, life unfolds at a slower pace, a rhythm dictated by the seasons, the harvests, and the enduring bonds of community. But beneath the surface of this idyllic tableau, a silent adversary lurks: lung cancer. This article, a deep dive into the community health landscape of ZIP code 28340, aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, not just of risk factors, but also of the resources and opportunities that empower residents to breathe easier, to live healthier, and to combat this insidious disease.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Before we delve into the specifics, let's paint a picture of the people who call Fairmont home. ZIP code 28340 is predominantly rural, a tapestry woven with threads of diverse heritage. The population is a vibrant mix of African American, Native American (primarily Lumbee), and Caucasian communities, each contributing to the rich cultural fabric of the town. This diversity, while a source of strength, also presents unique challenges when it comes to health outcomes.

A significant portion of the population falls within the lower socioeconomic brackets. This reality often translates to limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe, well-maintained housing. The median household income in 28340 is considerably lower than the national average, a factor that can directly impact health choices and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the age distribution leans towards an older demographic. This means a higher prevalence of age-related health issues, including chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and, of course, the increased risk of lung cancer. Understanding these demographic nuances is crucial to crafting effective strategies for improving community health.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a single number; it's a nuanced evaluation based on several key indicators. We'll examine these factors to assess the community's vulnerability and resilience:

**1. Smoking Prevalence:** The elephant in the room, and arguably the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While national smoking rates have declined, this trend doesn't always translate uniformly across all communities. We need to investigate local smoking rates in 28340, disaggregated by demographic groups, to get a clear picture. Are there specific populations with higher smoking prevalence? Are youth smoking rates increasing?

**Vignette Scene:** Imagine a warm afternoon in the park. Children chase each other, their laughter echoing through the trees. A group of older men sits on a bench, sharing stories and the occasional cigarette. The air is thick with the scent of tobacco, a familiar aroma that has lingered in Fairmont for generations. This seemingly innocuous scene highlights the need for targeted interventions, culturally sensitive smoking cessation programs tailored to the specific needs of the community.

**2. Environmental Factors:** Exposure to environmental hazards can significantly increase lung cancer risk. This includes exposure to radon, asbestos, and other pollutants. We need to investigate the presence of these substances in the local environment. Are there industrial sites with a history of pollution? Are there concerns about air quality?

**Vignette Scene:** The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the fields. A local farmer, his hands calloused from years of work, stands outside his home, the scent of freshly tilled earth filling the air. But mixed with the earth is a faint, metallic tang – a reminder of the nearby agricultural processing plant. This scene underscores the importance of monitoring environmental health and ensuring that local industries operate responsibly.

**3. Access to Healthcare:** Early detection is crucial in the fight against lung cancer. This means having access to regular checkups, screenings, and timely diagnosis. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic facilities in 28340. Are there barriers to accessing care, such as lack of insurance, transportation challenges, or long wait times?

**Vignette Scene:** A single mother, struggling to make ends meet, sits in a waiting room, anxiously awaiting her appointment. She's worried about a persistent cough, but her limited resources make it difficult to seek medical attention. This scene highlights the need for affordable healthcare options, mobile health clinics, and community outreach programs to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.

**4. Healthy Lifestyle in Fairmont: Diet, Exercise, and Wellness**

A healthy lifestyle is a powerful shield against lung cancer. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques. We need to examine the availability of healthy food options in 28340. Are there farmers' markets? Are there grocery stores that offer affordable, nutritious choices? We also need to assess the availability of recreational facilities and opportunities for physical activity.

**Vignette Scene:** The aroma of collard greens and freshly baked cornbread wafts from a community kitchen. Volunteers are preparing a healthy meal for seniors, a program designed to combat food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits. This scene showcases the power of community-based initiatives to foster a culture of wellness.

**5. Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Fresh Air**

Fairmont, like many communities, is not without its champions of health. We need to identify and assess the effectiveness of local wellness programs. Are there smoking cessation programs? Are there support groups for cancer survivors? Are there initiatives to promote healthy eating and physical activity?

**Vignette Scene:** A group of women gathers at the local community center, their faces lit with determination. They're participating in a walking club, a program designed to encourage physical activity and social connection. This scene highlights the importance of community-led initiatives to promote a healthy lifestyle.

**6. The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Cohesion and Support**

A strong sense of community can buffer against the stresses of life and promote overall well-being. We need to assess the level of social cohesion in 28340. Are there strong social networks? Are there opportunities for residents to connect with each other and support each other?

**Vignette Scene:** A porch swing creaks gently as neighbors gather, sharing stories and laughter. This scene underscores the importance of social connection and the power of community support.

**7. Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural Beauty**

Fairmont is blessed with natural beauty, including the Lumber River, which offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. We need to assess the accessibility and utilization of these resources. Are there parks and trails? Are they well-maintained and safe?

**Vignette Scene:** Kayakers glide down the Lumber River, the sun glinting off the water. This scene highlights the importance of outdoor recreation and the benefits of connecting with nature.

**Places to Live: Assessing the Environment**

The quality of the living environment can also impact health. We need to assess the condition of housing in 28340. Are there concerns about lead paint, mold, or other hazards? Are there initiatives to improve housing quality?

**Vignette Scene:** A community clean-up day, where volunteers work together to revitalize a neighborhood. This scene highlights the importance of creating safe and healthy living environments.

**Putting it All Together: Recommendations for a Healthier Future**

Based on our assessment, we can formulate recommendations to improve the "Lung Cancer Score" in 28340. These might include:

* **Targeted Smoking Cessation Programs:** Tailored to the specific needs of different demographic groups, incorporating culturally sensitive approaches.
* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including mobile health clinics and telehealth services.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Supporting farmers' markets, promoting healthy eating initiatives, and creating more opportunities for physical activity.
* **Community Education and Awareness:** Raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors, early detection, and prevention strategies.
* **Environmental Monitoring and Remediation:** Addressing environmental hazards and ensuring that local industries operate responsibly.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

**The Future of Breathing Easy in Fairmont**

The journey to improve community health in 28340 is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a sustained commitment from individuals, community organizations, and local government. By addressing the risk factors, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering a strong sense of community, Fairmont can create a future where residents can breathe easier, live healthier, and thrive. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a measure of risk; it's a call to action, a challenge to build a community where every breath is filled with the promise of a healthier, brighter future. The sweet air of Fairmont can, and will, be a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of its people.