28678, Stony Point, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28678, Stony Point, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.26 percent of the residents in 28678 has some form of health insurance. 37.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.53 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28678 would have to travel an average of 10.19 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Iredell Memorial Hospital Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,803 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28678, Stony Point, North Carolina.

## The Stony Point Score: Breathing Easy in 28678? A Deep Dive into Community Health

The air hangs crisp and clean over the rolling hills of Stony Point, North Carolina, a place where the pace of life often slows to a comfortable rhythm. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic community, a crucial question lingers: How healthy are we, really? This isn't just about individual choices; it's about the tapestry of community health, woven from demographics, access, opportunity, and the very fabric of our daily lives. This is the Stony Point Score, a deep dive into the wellness of ZIP code 28678, a snapshot of our collective lung health and overall vitality.

**The Demographics of Breath: Understanding Our People**

To understand the health landscape, we must first understand the people who inhabit it. Stony Point, nestled in Alexander County, boasts a population of roughly 5,000 souls. The demographics paint a picture of a predominantly white community, with a significant portion identifying as Christian. This homogeneity, while contributing to a strong sense of community, also presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to health.

The median age in 28678 leans towards the older side, reflecting a trend seen in many rural communities. This means a higher proportion of residents may be managing chronic conditions like heart disease and, crucially, lung-related illnesses. The prevalence of smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer, warrants close scrutiny. While national trends show a decline in smoking rates, the impact of this habit on the older demographic in Stony Point cannot be ignored. This is where the Stony Point Score begins to take shape, analyzing data on smoking rates, diagnosed cases of COPD, and the overall respiratory health of the community.

Beyond age, socioeconomic factors play a critical role. Income levels in Stony Point, while reflecting a comfortable standard of living for many, are generally below the national average. This can impact access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and preventative care, all of which are crucial in mitigating the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. The Stony Point Score will delve into these disparities, examining the correlation between income, access to care, and health outcomes.

**Where We Live: The Homes and the Heart of the Community**

The physical environment of Stony Point is a significant factor in our collective health. The town is primarily characterized by single-family homes, often with generous yards and access to the outdoors. This offers opportunities for physical activity, from gardening to simply enjoying the fresh air. However, the quality of housing itself is a consideration. Older homes may have issues with mold, radon, and other environmental hazards that can negatively impact lung health. The Stony Point Score will assess the prevalence of these factors and their potential impact on respiratory health.

The layout of Stony Point, with its reliance on personal vehicles, presents both benefits and drawbacks. While it provides residents with the freedom to access healthcare and employment opportunities, it also contributes to air pollution. The presence of local industries and their potential impact on air quality will be a key component of the Stony Point Score.

The neighborhoods themselves are a crucial aspect of the community's health. The "vibe" of a neighborhood, its sense of community, and the social connections it fosters can have a profound impact on well-being. The Stony Point Score will explore the social determinants of health, examining the strength of social networks, the availability of community resources, and the overall sense of belonging that residents experience.

Imagine Mrs. Henderson, a lifelong resident of Stony Point, tending her vibrant flower garden. The scent of petunias and roses fills the air, a testament to her love of nature and her commitment to her home. But the air she breathes is also influenced by the passing trucks on the nearby highway, the occasional wood-burning stove on a chilly evening, and the invisible presence of potential pollutants. The Stony Point Score considers all these elements, painting a nuanced picture of the environment that shapes her health.

**Breathing Easier: Healthy Lifestyle in Stony Point**

The good news is that Stony Point offers several opportunities for a healthy lifestyle. The presence of parks, walking trails, and open spaces encourages outdoor recreation. The Stony Point Score will assess the accessibility and utilization of these resources, examining how residents engage with the natural environment and the impact this has on their physical and mental health.

The local food landscape also plays a vital role. Access to fresh, healthy food is essential for overall well-being and can help mitigate the risk of lung cancer. The Stony Point Score will evaluate the availability of grocery stores, farmers' markets, and community gardens, assessing the community's access to nutritious food options.

Consider the local farmer's market, a vibrant hub where residents gather to purchase fresh produce, connect with their neighbors, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The Stony Point Score will examine the impact of such initiatives on community health, recognizing that access to healthy food is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.

**The Role of Local Wellness Programs**

The presence of local wellness programs is a crucial indicator of a community's commitment to health. The Stony Point Score will evaluate the availability of these programs, including:

* **Smoking cessation programs:** These programs are vital in helping residents quit smoking and reduce their risk of lung cancer.
* **Lung cancer screening initiatives:** Early detection is key to improving survival rates. The Stony Point Score will assess the availability and accessibility of lung cancer screenings.
* **Educational programs on respiratory health:** These programs can empower residents with knowledge about lung health, prevention, and early detection.
* **Support groups for individuals with lung conditions:** These groups provide a vital source of support and connection for those affected by lung disease.

Imagine Mr. Davis, a retired veteran, attending a free lung health workshop at the local community center. He learns about the dangers of secondhand smoke, the importance of regular checkups, and the resources available to help him manage his COPD. This is the power of local wellness programs – they empower individuals to take control of their health. The Stony Point Score will assess the effectiveness of these programs and identify opportunities for improvement.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

Stony Point's natural beauty is a significant asset. The surrounding hills and forests offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the fresh air. The Stony Point Score will assess the accessibility and utilization of these resources, recognizing that physical activity is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.

Picture a family hiking the trails at Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and enjoying the beauty of nature. This is a testament to the importance of outdoor recreation in promoting physical and mental well-being. The Stony Point Score will explore the ways in which residents engage with the natural environment and the impact this has on their overall health.

**The Stony Point Score: A Call to Action**

The Stony Point Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of our community's health, a call to action, and a roadmap for improvement. It's about understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that exist within our community and working together to create a healthier future.

The final Stony Point Score will be a comprehensive assessment of the factors discussed above, providing a clear picture of the community's strengths and weaknesses. It will highlight areas where we are excelling and areas where we need to improve. This information will be used to:

* **Identify specific risk factors for lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.**
* **Assess the effectiveness of existing wellness programs.**
* **Recommend strategies for improving community health.**
* **Advocate for resources and programs that support a healthy lifestyle.**

The goal is not just to assign a score but to empower the residents of Stony Point with the knowledge and resources they need to breathe easier, live longer, and thrive in their community. It's about fostering a culture of health, where every resident has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.

The Stony Point Score is a continuous process, a living document that will be updated and refined over time. It's a commitment to the health and well-being of our community, a testament to our shared values, and a promise to build a healthier future for all.