11374, Rego Park, New York Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11374, Rego Park, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 11374 has some form of health insurance. 36.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.09 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 11374 would have to travel an average of 1.82 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Elmhurst Hospital Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,428 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 11374, Rego Park, New York.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in 11374, Rego Park

The air hums with a particular energy in Rego Park, Queens. It's a blend of hurried footsteps on 63rd Drive, the sizzle of street food from a dozen different cultures, and the constant, comforting rumble of the subway. This vibrant tapestry of life, woven from generations of immigrants and their descendants, is the very essence of 11374. But beneath the surface, beyond the bustling markets and the laughter echoing from playgrounds, lies a more complex reality, one that demands a closer look when we consider the potential impact of lung cancer on this community. We're not just talking about statistics; we're talking about lives lived, dreams pursued, and the very air that sustains them. This is our Lung Cancer Score for Rego Park.

**The Pulse of the Neighborhood: Demographics and Their Impact**

Rego Park, like many of its Queens neighbors, is a melting pot. This is not a tired cliché; it's a living, breathing truth. The demographic landscape of 11374 is incredibly diverse, and this diversity significantly shapes the community's health profile. We see a strong presence of families, with a significant portion of the population being children and young adults. This demographic, while generally considered healthier, also brings with it the responsibility of protecting them from environmental hazards and promoting healthy habits from a young age.

The large immigrant population, primarily from Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, adds another layer of complexity. While many immigrants bring with them strong cultural traditions of family and community support, they also face unique challenges. Language barriers, cultural differences in healthcare practices, and economic disparities can all impact access to preventative care and early detection of lung cancer. The stress of assimilation, coupled with the potential for exposure to environmental toxins in their previous countries of origin, further complicates the picture.

Let's imagine Mrs. Ramirez, a grandmother who recently arrived from Ecuador. She's thrilled to be reunited with her family in Rego Park, but she struggles with English and navigating the complex American healthcare system. She's a smoker, a habit ingrained in her culture, and she’s unaware of the free lung cancer screenings available nearby. Her story, sadly, is not unique.

The age distribution in Rego Park is also a crucial factor. While the median age is slightly above the national average, there's a significant percentage of residents in the age groups most vulnerable to lung cancer. This means a greater need for targeted screening programs, smoking cessation support, and accessible healthcare services.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Concerns and Their Impact**

The air quality in Rego Park, like in many urban areas, is a constant concern. The proximity to major roadways, including the Long Island Expressway, contributes to elevated levels of pollutants. Diesel exhaust from buses and trucks, coupled with particulate matter from construction and industry, can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer.

Picture this: a sunny afternoon on 63rd Drive. The aroma of freshly baked bread from a local bakery mingles with the acrid scent of car exhaust. Children play on the sidewalk, oblivious to the invisible threats swirling around them. This everyday scene highlights the need for proactive measures to improve air quality. This includes advocating for cleaner transportation options, supporting green infrastructure projects, and educating residents about the risks of air pollution.

The presence of older buildings and the potential for exposure to asbestos, a known carcinogen, is another factor. Many older homes in Rego Park may contain asbestos materials, particularly in insulation and building materials. This poses a significant risk, especially during renovations or demolition projects.

**Places to Live: Housing and Its Influence on Health**

The type of housing in Rego Park also plays a role in the community's health. The prevalence of apartment buildings, while offering density and access to amenities, can also lead to cramped living conditions and potential exposure to mold, allergens, and other indoor pollutants.

Consider Mr. Chen, who lives in a small apartment with his family. The building is old, and there's a persistent dampness in the air. He worries about his children's allergies and the potential for mold growth. This is a common concern for many residents, and it underscores the importance of advocating for improved housing standards and access to affordable, healthy housing options.

The availability of green spaces and parks is another crucial factor. Rego Park has some lovely parks, like Flushing Meadows Corona Park, but access to these spaces can be limited for some residents. The lack of readily available green spaces can limit opportunities for outdoor recreation and physical activity, which are essential for overall health and well-being.

**The Vibe of the Neighborhood: Social Determinants of Health**

The "vibe" of Rego Park – the social fabric, the sense of community – is a powerful influence on health outcomes. The strong social connections, the vibrant cultural scene, and the sense of belonging can act as protective factors against stress and isolation, which are known to negatively impact health.

Imagine a community festival in the park, filled with music, food, and laughter. Neighbors greet each other, sharing stories and supporting one another. This sense of community is a valuable asset, but it needs to be nurtured and strengthened.

However, social determinants of health also include factors like access to healthy food, affordable healthcare, and educational opportunities. Food deserts, where access to fresh, healthy food is limited, can contribute to poor nutrition and increased risk of chronic diseases. The availability of affordable healthcare, including access to primary care physicians and specialists, is crucial for early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Rego Park: Opportunities and Challenges**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle in Rego Park is a multifaceted endeavor. There are opportunities, but also significant challenges.

* **Smoking Cessation:** The prevalence of smoking is a major concern. Targeted smoking cessation programs, tailored to the specific cultural backgrounds of the community, are essential. These programs need to be easily accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive.
* **Nutrition and Physical Activity:** Promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity are crucial. This includes supporting local farmers' markets, advocating for healthy food options in schools and community centers, and creating safe and accessible spaces for exercise.
* **Education and Awareness:** Raising awareness about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies is paramount. This includes educating residents about the dangers of smoking, the importance of early detection, and the availability of free screenings.
* **Local Wellness Programs:** There are some excellent local wellness programs in Rego Park, but they need to be expanded and better promoted. This includes partnering with community organizations, religious institutions, and healthcare providers to reach a wider audience.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easier in the Green Spaces**

Rego Park has access to several parks and green spaces, which are vital for promoting physical activity and mental well-being.

* **Flushing Meadows Corona Park:** This large park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.
* **Community Gardens:** These gardens provide opportunities for residents to grow their own food and connect with nature.
* **Biking and Walking:** Promoting walking and biking as modes of transportation can help improve air quality and encourage physical activity.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Call to Action**

Based on the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for 11374, Rego Park, is complex. While the strong sense of community and the presence of some green spaces offer protective factors, the demographic diversity, the environmental concerns, and the challenges related to access to healthcare and healthy lifestyles create a need for proactive measures.

The score is not a simple number; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that we must:

* **Advocate for improved air quality:** Support policies that reduce pollution and promote cleaner transportation options.
* **Promote smoking cessation:** Expand access to culturally sensitive smoking cessation programs.
* **Increase access to healthcare:** Ensure that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including lung cancer screenings.
* **Support healthy lifestyles:** Promote healthy eating habits, encourage physical activity, and create safe and accessible spaces for recreation.
* **Educate and empower the community:** Raise awareness about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies.

Rego Park is a vibrant community with a rich history and a bright future. By addressing the challenges and building on the strengths of this diverse neighborhood, we can create a healthier environment for all residents, ensuring that everyone can breathe easy and live a long and fulfilling life. The Lung Cancer Score is not just about statistics; it's about the lives of the people who call 11374 home. It's about creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.