13648, Harrisville, New York Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13648, Harrisville, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.61 percent of the residents in 13648 has some form of health insurance. 48.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 13648 would have to travel an average of 12.01 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Clifton Fine Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 247 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 13648, Harrisville, New York.

## The Harrisville Hustle: Taking a Deep Breath and Building a Lung Cancer Score in 13648

The wind whips off the Oswegatchie River, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a scent that defines Harrisville, New York, ZIP code 13648. It's a scent that should be invigorating, a reminder of the vast Adirondack wilderness that cradles this small community. But for Harrisville, the air also carries a whisper of concern, a shadow cast by the potential for lung cancer. This isn't a diagnosis, but a challenge. It's a call to action, a chance to build a "Lung Cancer Score" – not a numerical value, but a tapestry woven from the threads of community health, healthy lifestyles, and the vibrant spirit of a place that refuses to be defined by its challenges.

Our journey begins not with statistics, but with the faces of Harrisville. Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered from years of tending her prize-winning dahlias, her laughter echoing through her sun-drenched porch. She’s a fixture at the Harrisville Free Library, always eager to share a book recommendation or a slice of her famous apple pie. Then there’s young Mateo, skateboarding down Main Street, his energy a blur of motion against the backdrop of the historic buildings. He dreams of carving out a career in the local lumber mill, a trade that runs deep in his family’s history. And finally, there’s old man Silas, perched on a bench overlooking the river, his eyes reflecting the wisdom of a life lived in rhythm with the seasons. These are the threads that make up the fabric of Harrisville. Their well-being, their vitality, is the foundation upon which we build our "Lung Cancer Score."

**Demographics: Understanding the Lay of the Land**

Before we can truly understand the health landscape, we need to know who calls 13648 home. Harrisville, like many rural communities, is characterized by a close-knit population, with a median age that leans towards the older side. This aging demographic, coupled with a history of industries like logging and mining, creates a unique set of challenges. The potential for exposure to environmental hazards, coupled with the lifestyle choices that can be influenced by these industries, are vital factors in understanding the potential risks associated with lung cancer.

The town's economic landscape is another key consideration. Lower income levels, which are common in rural areas, can impact access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing. These factors can indirectly contribute to the likelihood of developing lung cancer. For instance, a lack of financial resources can make it difficult to afford regular check-ups or afford the healthier food options.

**Places to Live: Breathing in the Environment**

The very air we breathe is shaped by our surroundings. In Harrisville, the environment is both a blessing and a potential source of concern. The vast forests surrounding the town provide a stunning backdrop and opportunities for outdoor recreation, but they also present potential challenges. The presence of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can be a significant risk factor for lung cancer. Understanding the levels of radon in homes and implementing mitigation strategies is a crucial step in improving the "Lung Cancer Score."

The types of housing in Harrisville also play a role. Older homes, particularly those built before modern building codes, may have inadequate ventilation, potentially trapping pollutants and increasing the risk of respiratory problems. The quality of housing and the presence of mold or other allergens can also exacerbate existing respiratory conditions, increasing the risk.

Imagine the Miller family, their cozy cottage nestled on the edge of the woods. They love the peace and quiet, the feeling of being surrounded by nature. But they also know that their home, like many in the area, might need a radon test. They’re proactive, though, and have already scheduled a visit from a local contractor who specializes in radon mitigation.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Harrisville: Cultivating a Culture of Wellness**

The heart of our "Lung Cancer Score" lies in the lifestyle choices of the community. Encouraging healthy habits is paramount. This goes beyond simply advocating for quitting smoking, although that is undoubtedly a critical piece of the puzzle. It's about fostering a culture of wellness that permeates every aspect of life in Harrisville.

Let's envision the Harrisville Central School. The school is the hub of the community, where children are taught not just academic subjects but also the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. The school's athletic programs, from cross-country running through the woods to the basketball team, offer opportunities for exercise and camaraderie. Imagine a new initiative, a partnership between the school and local farmers, bringing fresh, locally grown produce into the cafeteria.

The local grocery store, a place where neighbors meet and chat, could expand its selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, offering cooking demonstrations and workshops on healthy meal preparation. The town could organize regular community walks and bike rides, encouraging residents to explore the beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building Bridges to Health**

Harrisville isn't starting from scratch. The town already has a foundation of community spirit. The challenge is to build upon this foundation, creating and promoting specific wellness programs that address the unique needs of the community.

Consider the Harrisville Health Center, a vital resource for residents. It could expand its outreach programs, offering free lung cancer screenings and educational workshops on risk factors and prevention. Imagine a support group for smokers who want to quit, led by a compassionate nurse practitioner.

The local library, already a center for community engagement, could host health-focused workshops, such as sessions on stress management, mindful breathing, and the benefits of a plant-based diet. The library could also partner with local organizations to provide access to reliable health information and resources.

The town could also establish a partnership with the Adirondack Health Institute, a regional organization that provides resources and support for community health initiatives. This partnership could bring in expertise and funding to support the development of new programs and the expansion of existing ones.

**Neighborhood Vibe: Fostering a Supportive Community**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about individual choices; it's about the collective spirit of the community. A strong neighborhood vibe, where people look out for each other and support each other, is essential for building a healthy community.

Imagine the annual town picnic, a celebration of community spirit. It's a chance for neighbors to connect, share stories, and build relationships. The picnic could feature a health fair, with booths offering information on lung cancer prevention, smoking cessation, and healthy living.

The local churches and community groups can play a vital role in fostering a supportive environment. They can organize social events, provide support for families facing health challenges, and promote a sense of belonging.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Adirondack Playground**

Harrisville is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Encouraging residents to embrace the outdoors is a key component of building a healthy lifestyle.

Imagine the trails winding through the Adirondack forests, beckoning residents to hike, bike, and explore. The town could invest in improving and maintaining these trails, making them accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

The Oswegatchie River offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The town could organize guided tours and workshops, introducing residents to the joys of water recreation.

The local park could be equipped with a fitness trail, providing a convenient place for residents to exercise. The park could also host outdoor yoga classes and other fitness programs.

**The Harrisville Hustle: A Score in Progress**

Building a strong "Lung Cancer Score" in Harrisville is not a destination; it’s a journey. It's a continuous process of assessment, action, and adaptation. It requires the collective effort of the entire community – residents, healthcare providers, local businesses, and community organizations.

It’s about recognizing the challenges and embracing the opportunities. It's about celebrating the beauty of the Adirondack wilderness while taking proactive steps to protect the health of its residents.

The "Lung Cancer Score" in Harrisville is not just about preventing a disease; it's about building a healthier, more vibrant community. It's about ensuring that Mrs. Gable can continue to tend her dahlias for years to come, that Mateo can pursue his dreams in a healthy environment, and that old man Silas can continue to watch the river flow, knowing that the future of Harrisville is bright.

The Harrisville hustle is about taking a deep breath, appreciating the air, and working together to build a healthier tomorrow. It's a score in progress, a testament to the resilience and spirit of a community that understands that health is not just a personal responsibility, but a shared commitment.