28504, Kinston, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.10 percent of the residents in 28504 has some form of health insurance. 48.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.50 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28504 would have to travel an average of 3.66 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Unc Lenoir Health Care. In a 20-mile radius, there are 669 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina.

## The Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Life into 28504, Kinston, NC

The air hangs thick in Kinston, North Carolina. Not just with the humidity that clings to your skin in the summer, but with the echoes of history, the scent of frying hushpuppies, and the quiet hum of a community striving for something more. This isn’t a place that gives up easily. It’s a town that’s weathered storms, both literal and figurative, and is now taking a deep breath, ready to exhale a future where health and well-being are not just aspirations, but realities. This is a look at the “Lung Cancer Score” – not a clinical metric, but a metaphor for the overall health of the community in ZIP code 28504, a place where the fight for breath is a fight for life itself.

The “score” isn’t about numbers alone. It’s about the tapestry of life woven within these boundaries: the demographics, the access to resources, the very fabric of the neighborhood vibe. It’s about understanding the challenges, celebrating the victories, and charting a course toward a healthier future.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Deep Breath**

28504 is a microcosm of the American South, a blend of tradition and transformation. The population skews towards a younger demographic, with families settling down and building their lives. The median age hovers around the mid-thirties, a generation poised to shape the future. African Americans comprise a significant portion of the population, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. The presence of a historically Black college, Lenoir-Rhyne University, injects youthful energy and a commitment to education into the community.

But within this vibrant portrait, shadows linger. Poverty rates are higher than the national average, a stark reality that impacts access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe living environments. The legacy of environmental injustice, with past industrial practices leaving their mark, adds another layer of complexity. These factors, combined with the prevalence of smoking, a significant risk factor for lung cancer, paint a picture of a community facing significant health disparities.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a grandmother who has lived in 28504 her entire life. She remembers the days when the air was thick with the smell of the tobacco fields, a scent that was both familiar and, in retrospect, insidious. She knows the stories of family and friends lost to the disease, the silent battles fought within the walls of their homes. Her concern for the health of her grandchildren, who are just starting to navigate the world, fuels her determination to see change.

**The Places We Call Home: Breathing Room and the Built Environment**

Where we live directly impacts our health. In 28504, the quality of housing varies. Some neighborhoods boast well-maintained homes with manicured lawns, reflecting a sense of pride and stability. Others struggle with aging infrastructure, dilapidated buildings, and the lingering effects of neglect.

Take a drive down Queen Street, the heart of downtown. You see the potential, the bones of a revitalized community. Historic buildings stand tall, whispering tales of a bygone era. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from a local café mingles with the sounds of laughter and conversation. But you also see the vacant storefronts, the reminders of economic hardship, and the need for investment.

The availability of affordable and safe housing is crucial. Overcrowding and substandard living conditions can exacerbate respiratory problems and contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. The presence of green spaces, parks, and recreational areas is equally important. They offer opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and a connection with nature, all vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Picture a young couple, eager to start a family. They are searching for a home, a place where their children can thrive. They dream of a backyard where they can play, a park nearby where they can run and explore. They are looking for a community that prioritizes their well-being, a place where they can breathe easy.

**Fueling the Body and Soul: Food, Fitness, and the Fight for a Healthy Lifestyle in Kinston**

The availability of healthy food options is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. In 28504, access to fresh produce and nutritious meals is a challenge. Food deserts, areas with limited access to grocery stores and fresh food, are a reality. This can lead to reliance on processed foods, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases that increase the risk of lung cancer.

But there are glimmers of hope. Local farmers' markets are popping up, offering a taste of the region's bounty. Community gardens are sprouting, providing opportunities for residents to grow their own food and learn about healthy eating habits. Restaurants are starting to embrace healthier menus, incorporating fresh, local ingredients into their dishes.

Think of a group of friends, gathering at a community garden. They are planting seeds, tending to the soil, and sharing stories. They are learning about the importance of healthy eating and the joy of growing their own food. They are building a sense of community and reclaiming their health.

Physical activity is another vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The opportunities for outdoor recreation in 28504 are abundant. The Neuse River, which flows through the heart of the city, offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic walks. Parks and trails provide spaces for running, biking, and playing.

Imagine a family, spending a sunny afternoon at a local park. The children are running and playing, their laughter echoing through the trees. The parents are enjoying a leisurely stroll, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the sunshine. They are building memories, strengthening their bonds, and prioritizing their physical well-being.

**Breathing Life into the Community: Local Wellness Programs and the Power of Connection**

The success of the Lung Cancer Score depends not only on individual choices but also on the collective efforts of the community. Local wellness programs play a crucial role in promoting health and well-being. These programs can provide education, support, and resources to help residents adopt healthy lifestyles.

Consider the work of the local health department. They are organizing free health screenings, offering smoking cessation programs, and providing education about lung cancer prevention. They are partnering with local organizations to reach underserved populations and address health disparities.

Think of the support groups, where individuals affected by lung cancer find solace and strength. They share their stories, offer encouragement, and build a sense of community. They are not alone in their fight.

The neighborhood vibe in 28504 is a mix of resilience, warmth, and a deep sense of community. Neighbors look out for each other, offering support and encouragement. There's a strong sense of pride in the community, a determination to overcome challenges and build a better future.

Imagine a community potluck, where neighbors gather to share food, stories, and laughter. They are celebrating their shared heritage, strengthening their bonds, and building a sense of belonging. They are creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

**The Road Ahead: A Deeper Breath and a Brighter Future**

The Lung Cancer Score in 28504 is not a static number. It is a dynamic measure of the community's health, a reflection of its strengths and weaknesses, and a testament to its resilience. The path toward a healthier future requires a multifaceted approach:

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including preventative screenings and early detection programs, is crucial.
* **Addressing Food Insecurity:** Supporting local farmers' markets, community gardens, and food banks can improve access to healthy food options.
* **Promoting Physical Activity:** Investing in parks, trails, and recreational facilities can encourage physical activity and outdoor recreation.
* **Combating Smoking:** Implementing comprehensive smoking cessation programs and raising awareness about the dangers of smoking are essential.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and community members can create a supportive environment for health and well-being.
* **Investing in Affordable Housing:** Ensuring access to safe and affordable housing is fundamental to improving community health.

The journey towards a healthier 28504 is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a deep breath of hope. It demands that we recognize the interconnectedness of our lives, the power of community, and the importance of breathing easy.

Imagine a future where Mrs. Johnson's grandchildren are thriving, where the air is cleaner, and where the community is united in its pursuit of health and well-being. A future where the Lung Cancer Score is not just a measure of risk, but a testament to the resilience, the strength, and the unwavering spirit of the people of 28504. It’s a future worth fighting for, a future where everyone can breathe a little easier.