Lung Cancer Score

28452, Longwood, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.84 percent of the residents in 28452 has some form of health insurance. 50.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.81 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28452 would have to travel an average of 15.97 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,245 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina.

Health Scores in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina

Lung Cancer Score 23
People Score 22
Provider Score 31
Hospital Score 63
Travel Score 36

Insurance Types

28452 Longwood North Carolina
Employer Insurance 34.66 34.66 51.42
Direct Purchase Insurance 2.34 2.34 14.69
Medicare 19.20 19.20 18.16
Medicaid 27.17 27.17 17.74
TRICARE 6.56 6.56 4.27
VA 52.69 52.69 53.01

Percent Insured in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

28452 Longwood North Carolina
Under 19 100.00 100.00 94.50
Adults (19-64 years) 77.60 77.60 84.37
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.44

People Score Review of 28452, Longwood, North Carolina

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina

The air hangs thick and humid in Longwood, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28452), a characteristic embrace of the coastal plain. It's a scent of pine, salt marsh, and the subtle, almost imperceptible, hum of a community finding its rhythm. But beneath the surface, a silent threat lingers: lung cancer. This isn't a scare tactic; it's a reality. And understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" – the complex interplay of factors that influence a community's vulnerability to this disease – is crucial for building a healthier future in 28452.

Forget sterile statistics for a moment. Imagine this: the sun, a molten orange, dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. Children's laughter spills from the playground at Longwood Park, a vibrant counterpoint to the rustling of the Spanish moss draped over ancient oaks. Across the street, the aroma of grilling burgers and the murmur of conversation drift from a backyard gathering. This is the heart of Longwood, a tapestry woven with threads of family, community, and a deep connection to the land. But how healthy is this heart, really?

**Demographics: The Foundation of Understanding**

The first layer of our "Lung Cancer Score" is demographics. 28452 is a microcosm of many Southern communities, with a population that skews towards older adults, a significant percentage of whom have lived here for decades. This aging demographic, while a testament to the area's appeal, also means a higher baseline risk for lung cancer. Age is the single biggest risk factor.

Beyond age, the racial and socioeconomic makeup of the community matters. While the area is relatively homogenous, with a predominantly white population, understanding the nuances is key. Are there pockets of underserved communities? Are there disparities in access to healthcare, healthy food options, or safe housing? These factors can significantly impact health outcomes. A lower socioeconomic status often correlates with increased exposure to risk factors like smoking, limited access to preventative care, and exposure to environmental hazards.

Consider Mrs. Eleanor, a woman with a lifetime of stories etched onto her face, who has lived in Longwood her entire life. She remembers a time when everyone smoked, a cultural norm deeply ingrained in the fabric of Southern life. She also remembers the struggles of making ends meet, the reliance on cheaper, less nutritious foods, and the limited access to specialized medical care. These historical realities, the echoes of a past that continues to shape the present, are vital to understanding the current health landscape.

**Places to Live: The Built Environment's Influence**

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the built environment – the physical spaces where people live, work, and play. In 28452, this includes the quality of housing, the proximity to industrial areas, and the availability of green spaces.

Imagine the quiet streets lined with well-maintained homes, some with sprawling lawns, others nestled closer together. The presence of older homes, while charming, raises the specter of potential asbestos exposure, a known carcinogen. The proximity to agricultural areas, a defining characteristic of the region, brings with it the potential for exposure to pesticides and herbicides, some of which are linked to increased cancer risk.

The absence of robust public transportation, a common challenge in rural areas, can limit access to healthcare facilities, including those specializing in lung cancer screening and treatment. This isolation can also exacerbate social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and lack of social support, which further contribute to poor health outcomes.

Then there's the air quality. While the coastal breezes often provide a welcome respite, the potential for air pollution from nearby industries and agricultural practices must be considered. This is where the "Lung Cancer Score" begins to take shape, revealing the complexities of community health.

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

The choices people make every day significantly impact their risk of lung cancer. This is where the "Lung Cancer Score" becomes personal.

The prevalence of smoking is a critical factor. While smoking rates have declined nationally, they remain a significant concern, particularly in certain demographics. Are there effective smoking cessation programs available in 28452? Are they accessible and culturally sensitive? The success of these programs is directly linked to the community's ability to combat lung cancer.

Beyond smoking, lifestyle choices play a crucial role. A healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and regular physical activity are essential for overall health and can help mitigate the risks associated with lung cancer.

Picture Mr. Johnson, a retired veteran who enjoys his daily walks through the nearby woods. He's fortunate to have access to the natural beauty of the area, a place where he can breathe fresh air and connect with nature. But does everyone in 28452 have the same opportunity? Are there safe and accessible walking trails, parks, and recreational facilities for all residents?

The availability of healthy food options is another crucial piece of the puzzle. Are there local farmers' markets? Are there grocery stores that offer affordable, nutritious choices? Food deserts, areas with limited access to fresh, healthy food, can contribute to poor health outcomes and increase the risk of chronic diseases, including lung cancer.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about identifying risks; it's also about highlighting opportunities for improvement. This is where local wellness programs come into play.

Imagine the community center buzzing with activity. Maybe there's a free yoga class offered, a support group for smokers trying to quit, or a health fair providing free screenings and educational materials. These programs are vital for empowering residents to take control of their health.

The success of these programs depends on several factors: accessibility, affordability, and cultural sensitivity. Are the programs offered at convenient times and locations? Are they tailored to the specific needs of the community? Do they address the unique challenges faced by different demographic groups?

Collaboration is key. Local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies must work together to create a comprehensive network of support. This could involve partnering with local schools to promote healthy habits among children, or working with employers to offer wellness programs for their employees.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Power of Community**

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the intangible aspects of community health: the neighborhood vibe, the sense of belonging, and the social support networks.

Imagine a community where neighbors look out for each other, where people feel connected and supported. This sense of community can buffer against the stresses of life and promote overall well-being.

In 28452, this might manifest as a church potluck, a volunteer effort to clean up a local park, or a friendly chat at the local coffee shop. These seemingly small interactions contribute to a strong social fabric, which can have a profound impact on health outcomes.

However, social isolation, a growing problem in many communities, can exacerbate health problems. Are there opportunities for social interaction and community engagement in 28452? Are there programs to support seniors and other vulnerable populations?

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good Life**

The natural beauty of 28452 offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. Access to outdoor recreation is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and can help reduce the risk of lung cancer.

Imagine kayaking on the nearby river, hiking through the woods, or simply enjoying a picnic in a local park. These activities provide opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

The availability of outdoor recreation opportunities is a critical factor. Are there well-maintained parks and trails? Are they accessible to all residents, regardless of their physical abilities or socioeconomic status?

**The Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the "Lung Cancer Score" for 28452? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment, a snapshot of the community's strengths and weaknesses. It's a call to action.

The score, based on the factors described above, likely reveals a mixed picture. The aging demographic, the potential for environmental exposures, and the historical prevalence of smoking pose significant challenges. However, the strong sense of community, the access to outdoor recreation, and the potential for robust wellness programs offer opportunities for improvement.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a judgment; it's a starting point. It's a tool for understanding the community's health landscape and identifying areas where targeted interventions can make a difference. It's a roadmap for building a healthier future in 28452, a future where the air is clean, the community is strong, and everyone has the opportunity to breathe easy. The work is ongoing, the journey continuous. The health of 28452 depends on it.

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