28391, Stedman, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.82 percent of the residents in 28391 has some form of health insurance. 31.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.90 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28391 would have to travel an average of 13.05 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 697 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Stedman, NC (ZIP Code 28391)

The humid air hangs heavy over Stedman, North Carolina, a scent of pine needles and damp earth mingling with the faint, sweet perfume of blooming honeysuckle. It’s a scent that speaks of rural life, of open spaces and the slow, deliberate rhythm of a community deeply rooted in its land. But beneath this idyllic veneer, like a hidden current, flows the ever-present concern of community health, and for residents of ZIP code 28391, the specter of lung cancer, a disease that casts a long shadow across the nation, demands our attention.

This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives of real people – the farmers who rise before dawn, the children chasing fireflies in the twilight, the veterans who gather at the local VFW. It's about understanding the factors that contribute to their well-being, the challenges they face, and the opportunities that exist to build a healthier, more resilient community. This is our Lung Cancer Score for Stedman, a snapshot of its health landscape, painted with the vibrant hues of everyday life.

**Understanding the Landscape: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Stedman, a small town nestled in Cumberland County, is a tapestry woven with threads of heritage and resilience. The 28391 ZIP code encompasses a blend of rural and suburban landscapes, stretching out from the heart of the town into the surrounding countryside. The population, hovering around 3,000, reflects a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other, and the echoes of generations past resonate in the familiar faces that gather at the Stedman Baptist Church or the local Dollar General.

Demographically, the community is predominantly White, with a significant African American population, reflecting the historical roots of the area. Median household income sits below the national average, a factor that often impacts access to healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices. The age distribution skews slightly older, with a noticeable presence of retirees and veterans, a demographic particularly vulnerable to the long-term effects of smoking and exposure to environmental hazards.

Driving through Stedman, you see the tangible evidence of this demographic makeup. Well-kept homes with manicured lawns sit side-by-side with older structures, some bearing the quiet dignity of age, others showing the wear and tear of time. The landscape is dotted with family farms, where the scent of freshly turned earth mingles with the sounds of tractors and the bleating of livestock. The pace of life is slower here, a stark contrast to the bustling cities just a short drive away.

**The Vibe: A Sense of Place and the Social Fabric**

The “vibe” of Stedman is one of quiet strength, a blend of Southern hospitality and a deep-seated sense of independence. The town square, anchored by the post office and a few local businesses, serves as a gathering place, where residents exchange greetings, catch up on the latest news, and share stories. The local fire department is a source of pride, its members volunteering their time and energy to protect the community.

The social fabric of Stedman is tightly woven, with strong family ties and a deep connection to the land. Churches play a central role in community life, providing spiritual guidance, social support, and a sense of belonging. The local school is more than just an educational institution; it’s a hub of activity, hosting community events, and fostering a sense of pride in the next generation.

But this close-knit community also faces challenges. The lack of readily available healthcare services, limited access to healthy food options, and the historical prevalence of smoking can create vulnerabilities. The impact of these factors on the community's lung cancer risk is something we must address.

**Breathing Easy: Healthy Lifestyle in Stedman**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle in Stedman is not just about combating disease; it's about empowering individuals to live fuller, richer lives. This involves a multi-pronged approach, focusing on prevention, early detection, and access to quality healthcare.

**The Smoking Factor:** The most significant risk factor for lung cancer is, of course, smoking. While the prevalence of smoking has decreased nationally, it remains a concern in many rural communities. Addressing this requires a comprehensive strategy that includes:

* **Education:** Raising awareness about the dangers of smoking, particularly among young people, is crucial. This can be achieved through school programs, community workshops, and public service announcements.
* **Cessation Support:** Providing access to smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, can help smokers quit. The local health department, in collaboration with community organizations, can play a vital role in offering these services.
* **Smoke-Free Environments:** Promoting smoke-free policies in public places and workplaces can protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke exposure.

**The Food Factor:** The availability of healthy food options is another critical aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Stedman has a few local grocery stores, but access to fresh produce can be limited. Addressing this involves:

* **Farmers Markets:** Establishing a local farmers market would provide residents with access to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables.
* **Community Gardens:** Encouraging the development of community gardens would allow residents to grow their own food and learn about healthy eating.
* **Nutrition Education:** Providing nutrition education programs in schools and community centers would help residents make informed food choices.

**The Movement Factor:** Physical activity is essential for overall health and can reduce the risk of lung cancer. Stedman offers several opportunities for outdoor recreation:

* **Parks and Trails:** Investing in the development of parks and trails would provide residents with safe and accessible spaces for walking, running, and other forms of exercise.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Encouraging outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and hiking, can promote a healthy lifestyle.
* **Community Events:** Organizing community events, such as fun runs and walks, can encourage physical activity and build a sense of community.

**The Healthcare Factor:** Access to quality healthcare is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. This includes:

* **Early Detection:** Promoting lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as current and former smokers, can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.
* **Healthcare Access:** Working to ensure that all residents have access to affordable healthcare services, including primary care physicians and specialists.
* **Community Health Programs:** Supporting local wellness programs.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While Stedman may face challenges, there are also glimmers of hope. The local health department, community churches, and volunteer organizations are working to promote healthy lifestyles and provide support to residents.

* **The Stedman Community Center:** Offers a variety of programs, including exercise classes, health screenings, and educational workshops.
* **The Local Churches:** Often host health fairs and provide support groups for individuals affected by cancer.
* **Volunteer Organizations:** Organize community events and raise funds for cancer research and support services.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

The natural beauty of Stedman offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can contribute to a healthy lifestyle and reduce the risk of lung cancer.

* **Hiking and Biking:** Exploring the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike can provide a great workout and a chance to connect with nature.
* **Fishing and Hunting:** These activities can provide a source of food and a way to enjoy the outdoors.
* **Community Events:** Participating in community events, such as festivals and outdoor concerts, can provide a sense of community and encourage physical activity.

**The Future: Building a Healthier Stedman**

The Lung Cancer Score for Stedman is not a final grade; it's a starting point. It's a call to action, a challenge to the community to come together and build a healthier future. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and access to quality healthcare, the residents of Stedman can reduce their risk of lung cancer and improve their overall well-being.

The path forward requires a collaborative effort, involving individuals, community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government. It requires a commitment to education, to providing support, and to creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to breathe easy.

As the sun sets over Stedman, casting long shadows across the fields and farms, the air is filled with the promise of a new day. A day when the community can celebrate its strength, its resilience, and its unwavering commitment to building a healthier, more vibrant future for all. The scent of honeysuckle still hangs in the air, but now, it's joined by the scent of hope, the scent of a community working together to breathe easy, to thrive, and to build a legacy of health for generations to come.