28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.55 percent of the residents in 28546 has some form of health insurance. 32.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28546 would have to travel an average of 1.32 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Onslow Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,489 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28546)

The salt-laced air, thick with the scent of pine and the promise of the Atlantic, hangs heavy over Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28546). It’s a town sculpted by the ebb and flow of the military, a place where families come and go, where the rhythm of life is punctuated by the roar of jets overhead and the distant crash of waves. But beneath the surface of this coastal community, a silent threat lurks: lung cancer. This isn't just a medical statistic; it's a story woven into the very fabric of the town, a story we're here to explore, to understand, and to, hopefully, help change.

This "Lung Cancer Score" isn't about assigning a numerical value. It’s about painting a picture, a nuanced portrait of community health in 28546, specifically focusing on the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk and, more importantly, the opportunities for building a healthier, more resilient community. We'll delve into the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the availability of local resources, and the potential for a healthy lifestyle in Jacksonville.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience and Risk**

The heart of 28546 beats with the pulse of Camp Lejeune, a sprawling Marine Corps base that defines much of the town's identity. This influence shapes the demographics in profound ways. The population is a dynamic mix, constantly shifting as service members and their families arrive, deploy, and eventually move on. This transient nature presents both challenges and opportunities for community health initiatives.

Imagine the young Marine, fresh out of training, arriving with his wife and newborn. They're looking for a place to call home, a safe haven amidst the chaos of military life. They might settle in a tidy, cookie-cutter neighborhood like **Stone Bay**, where manicured lawns and the distant hum of lawnmowers are the soundtrack to their new lives. Or perhaps they find themselves in a more established area like **Deerwood**, with its mature trees and the quiet murmur of families gathering for cookouts. These neighborhoods offer a sense of community, but the constant turnover can make building lasting connections challenging.

Then there's the veteran, returning home after years of service, carrying the invisible wounds of war, and potentially exposed to environmental hazards during their time in service. They might seek solace in a more rural setting, perhaps in the outskirts of town, where the air is cleaner and the pace of life slower. The presence of a large military population can also lead to a higher concentration of individuals who have served in areas with known environmental hazards, potentially increasing their risk for lung cancer.

The racial and ethnic diversity of 28546 is also a key factor. The community reflects the broader American landscape, with a significant African American population, as well as growing Hispanic and Asian communities. Each group brings its own unique cultural traditions, health beliefs, and access to healthcare. Understanding these nuances is crucial for tailoring effective health programs. For instance, culturally sensitive outreach programs could be vital in addressing specific health concerns and promoting early detection of lung cancer.

The median income in 28546 is often lower than the national average, and a significant percentage of families struggle to make ends meet. This economic reality can impact access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing. The stress of financial insecurity can also contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking, which is a major risk factor for lung cancer.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Patchwork of Experiences**

The "vibe" of 28546 is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of military life, Southern hospitality, and the ever-present influence of the coast. It's a town where you're just as likely to see a Marine in uniform as you are a family strolling along the **New River** waterfront.

The atmosphere in neighborhoods like **Brynn Marr** might be characterized by a sense of quiet efficiency, with well-maintained homes and a focus on family life. The proximity to schools and parks makes it a popular choice for young families. However, the constant movement of military families can also create a sense of transience, making it harder to build strong community bonds.

Venturing into the older sections of town, like areas closer to downtown, the atmosphere can be more relaxed, with a stronger sense of history. Here, you might find generations of families who have put down roots, creating a more established sense of community. However, these areas may also face challenges, such as aging infrastructure and limited access to resources.

The availability of green spaces and outdoor recreation opportunities is a crucial element of the neighborhood vibe. **Onslow Pines Park**, with its walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, offers a vital outlet for families and individuals to connect with nature and engage in physical activity. The proximity to the **New River** and the **Intracoastal Waterway** provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the coastal environment.

However, the impact of pollution and environmental hazards is also a consideration. The presence of military installations and industrial activities can potentially contribute to air and water quality issues, which can exacerbate lung cancer risk.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Jacksonville: Seeds of Change**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is paramount in reducing lung cancer risk. This involves a multi-pronged approach, focusing on smoking cessation, healthy eating, regular physical activity, and access to quality healthcare.

**Smoking Cessation:** The fight against lung cancer in 28546 must begin with a concerted effort to reduce smoking rates. This requires a combination of education, support, and access to resources. Local health clinics and hospitals should offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and medication. Community outreach programs can provide information about the dangers of smoking and the benefits of quitting, targeting both adults and young people.

**Healthy Eating:** Access to healthy food options is crucial. This means supporting local farmers markets, promoting community gardens, and ensuring that grocery stores in all neighborhoods offer a wide variety of fresh produce. Educational programs can teach residents about the importance of a balanced diet and how to prepare healthy meals.

**Physical Activity:** Encouraging regular physical activity is essential. This involves promoting the use of existing parks and recreational facilities, as well as advocating for the development of new trails and green spaces. Community events, such as walking clubs, running groups, and fitness classes, can provide opportunities for residents to get active and connect with others.

**Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality healthcare is critical. This includes promoting early detection of lung cancer through screening programs, providing access to affordable health insurance, and ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped to address the specific health needs of the community.

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

Several local organizations are working to improve community health in 28546. The **Onslow County Health Department** plays a vital role in providing public health services, including smoking cessation programs, health education, and disease prevention initiatives. Local hospitals, such as **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune** and **Onslow Memorial Hospital**, offer a range of healthcare services, including cancer screenings and treatment.

Community-based organizations, such as the **Boys & Girls Clubs** and local churches, can also play a crucial role in promoting healthy lifestyles. These organizations can provide educational programs, offer access to recreational activities, and serve as trusted sources of information for residents.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Benefits**

The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in 28546 is a significant asset. The **New River** offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The nearby beaches provide a chance to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the ocean breeze. The numerous parks and trails offer opportunities for walking, running, and cycling.

These outdoor activities not only promote physical health but also provide a much-needed respite from the stresses of daily life. They offer a chance to connect with nature, reduce stress levels, and improve overall well-being.

**The Road Ahead: A Call to Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 28546 is not a static measure. It's a living, breathing reflection of the community's health, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities requires a collaborative effort.

It calls for:

* **Increased awareness:** Educating residents about lung cancer risk factors, including smoking, environmental hazards, and the importance of early detection.
* **Expanded access:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including smoking cessation programs, cancer screenings, and treatment.
* **Community partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and government agencies.
* **Empowering individuals:** Providing residents with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to make healthy choices.
* **Advocating for change:** Supporting policies that promote healthy lifestyles, such as smoke-free environments, access to healthy food options, and the development of green spaces.

The journey toward a healthier 28546 is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a shared vision for a community where everyone can breathe easy, free from the shadow of lung cancer. It's a challenge, but it's also an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient community, one breath at a time.