The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 78.17 percent of the residents in 28425 has some form of health insurance. 39.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 28425 would have to travel an average of 0.61 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pender Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,694 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina
Lung Cancer Score | 8 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 13 |
Hospital Score | 40 |
Travel Score | 50 |
28425 | Burgaw | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 44.67 | 44.67 | 51.42 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 16.39 | 16.39 | 14.69 |
Medicare | 22.92 | 22.92 | 18.16 |
Medicaid | 19.90 | 19.90 | 17.74 |
TRICARE | 3.05 | 3.05 | 4.27 |
VA | 50.16 | 50.16 | 53.01 |
Percent Insured in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
28425 | Burgaw | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 87.53 | 87.53 | 94.50 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 80.24 | 80.24 | 84.37 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 98.67 | 98.67 | 99.44 |
## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Burgaw (ZIP Code 28425)
The air hangs heavy in Burgaw, North Carolina. Not in a suffocating way, mind you, but with the sweet, humid embrace of the coastal plain. It’s a scent woven with the promise of longleaf pines, the whisper of the Black River, and the lingering aroma of Southern cooking. But beneath the surface of this idyllic tableau, a silent threat lingers: lung cancer. This article, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, dives deep into the community health of Burgaw (ZIP Code 28425), examining the factors that contribute to its residents' respiratory well-being. We'll explore the demographics, the lifestyle, and the resources available, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that shape the fight against lung cancer in this charming corner of Pender County.
**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**
Burgaw, a town of roughly 4,000 souls, nestled in the heart of Pender County, is a place where time seems to slow. The historic courthouse square, anchored by the stately Pender County Courthouse, serves as the community's pulse. The town's population is predominantly white, with a significant African American population, reflecting the deep roots of both cultures in this fertile land. The median age leans towards the older side, with a sizable percentage of residents in the 65+ age bracket. This demographic profile is crucial, as age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.
The economic landscape is largely rural, with agriculture, particularly timber and farming, playing a vital role. This means many residents work outdoors, potentially exposing them to environmental hazards like dust and pesticides, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. The town’s relative isolation, while fostering a strong sense of community, also presents challenges. Access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and oncologists, can be limited, requiring residents to travel to Wilmington or Jacksonville for advanced treatment.
The housing stock is diverse, ranging from historic homes lining the courthouse square to more modern developments sprawling on the outskirts. The cost of living is relatively affordable, attracting retirees and families seeking a slower pace of life. However, older homes, while charming, may pose risks if they contain asbestos or radon, both known contributors to lung cancer.
**The Vibe: Community Spirit and the Burden of History**
The "vibe" of Burgaw is undeniably Southern. The pace is deliberate, the conversations are friendly, and the sense of community is palpable. Neighbors wave from their porches, children play in the parks, and the aroma of fried chicken and collard greens wafts from open windows. This strong social fabric is a crucial asset in promoting community health. Word-of-mouth spreads quickly, making it easier to disseminate information about health screenings, smoking cessation programs, and healthy lifestyle choices.
However, the town's history, like that of many Southern communities, carries a complex legacy. The legacy of tobacco farming, once a cornerstone of the local economy, casts a long shadow. While the industry has declined, the cultural acceptance of smoking, particularly among older generations, may linger. This historical context necessitates a sensitive and nuanced approach to addressing smoking cessation and lung cancer prevention.
**The Lifestyle: A Balancing Act of Tradition and Transformation**
The lifestyle in Burgaw is a blend of tradition and evolving trends. Many residents embrace a slower pace, prioritizing family, faith, and community. This can translate into a more relaxed lifestyle, with less emphasis on the pressures of urban living. However, this can also lead to a less active lifestyle for some.
**Vignette 1: The Farmer's Market and the Scent of Hope**
The Saturday morning farmer's market, held on the courthouse square, is a vibrant hub of activity. Farmers, their faces tanned by the sun, proudly display their bounty: plump tomatoes, fragrant peaches, and freshly picked greens. The air buzzes with conversation, laughter, and the clinking of coins. This is a place where community bonds are strengthened, and healthy eating habits are encouraged. But the scene is not without its challenges. The prevalence of fried foods and sugary drinks at some vendors highlights the need for educational outreach on balanced nutrition. The market, however, is a powerful symbol of the community's commitment to well-being.
**Vignette 2: The River's Embrace and the Call to Action**
The Black River, winding its way through Pender County, offers a natural sanctuary. Kayakers glide silently through the water, the sunlight dappling through the cypress trees. This is a place for outdoor recreation, a chance to breathe in the fresh air and connect with nature. But access to the river and other outdoor spaces is not always equitable. Some residents may lack the means or the transportation to fully enjoy these resources. The community needs to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the restorative power of nature.
**The Fight Against Lung Cancer: Resources and Opportunities**
Burgaw is not alone in its fight against lung cancer. The town and its surrounding county are served by a network of resources, though their accessibility and effectiveness vary.
* **Pender County Health Department:** This vital institution provides a range of services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and educational programs. They play a critical role in disseminating information about lung cancer prevention and early detection. Their outreach efforts, particularly in the African American community, are crucial, given the disproportionate impact of lung cancer on this population.
* **Local Hospitals and Clinics:** While Burgaw itself may lack a major hospital, nearby facilities in Wilmington and Jacksonville offer specialized medical care, including pulmonology and oncology services. The challenge lies in ensuring that residents have access to transportation and financial assistance to access these services.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** The health department and local clinics offer smoking cessation programs, which are essential in combating the leading cause of lung cancer. These programs need to be readily accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the specific needs of the community.
* **Wellness Initiatives:** Local organizations, such as the YMCA and community centers, offer wellness programs, including exercise classes and health education workshops. These programs can promote healthy lifestyle choices and reduce the risk factors associated with lung cancer.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Preliminary Assessment**
Based on the factors discussed, we can begin to formulate a preliminary "Lung Cancer Score" for Burgaw (ZIP Code 28425). This score is not a definitive number, but rather a holistic assessment of the community's strengths and weaknesses in its fight against lung cancer.
**Strengths:**
* **Strong Sense of Community:** Fosters social support and facilitates the dissemination of health information.
* **Affordable Cost of Living:** Attracts retirees and families, potentially leading to a more relaxed lifestyle.
* **Access to Outdoor Recreation:** Provides opportunities for physical activity and connection with nature.
* **Local Resources:** Pender County Health Department and nearby medical facilities offer essential services.
**Weaknesses:**
* **Older Demographic:** Increases the risk of lung cancer.
* **Historical Legacy of Tobacco Farming:** May contribute to a higher prevalence of smoking.
* **Limited Access to Specialized Medical Care:** Requires residents to travel for advanced treatment.
* **Potential Environmental Hazards:** Outdoor work may expose residents to respiratory irritants.
* **Inequitable Access to Resources:** Some residents may face barriers to accessing healthcare and wellness programs.
**Recommendations for Improvement:**
* **Expand Smoking Cessation Programs:** Increase the availability and accessibility of smoking cessation programs, tailoring them to the specific needs of the community.
* **Promote Early Detection:** Increase awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines and encourage regular check-ups, especially for high-risk individuals.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Address transportation and financial barriers to accessing specialized medical care.
* **Enhance Wellness Initiatives:** Expand the availability of exercise classes, health education workshops, and healthy food options.
* **Address Environmental Hazards:** Educate residents about potential environmental risks and promote safe work practices.
* **Foster Community Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between the health department, local organizations, and community leaders to address lung cancer prevention and control.
* **Raise Awareness:** Host community events focused on lung cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection.
**The Future: Breathing Easy in Burgaw**
The fight against lung cancer in Burgaw is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a sustained commitment from the community, a willingness to address the challenges, and a celebration of the strengths. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and access to quality healthcare, Burgaw can strive to create a healthier future for its residents. The sweet air of Burgaw, once tinged with the shadow of risk, can become a symbol of hope, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of a community working together to breathe easier. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action, a reminder that every breath matters, and that the health of a community is a shared responsibility. The journey towards a lung cancer-free Burgaw is a journey worth taking, one breath at a time.
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