13752, Delancey, New York Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13752, Delancey, New York is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 13752 has some form of health insurance. 29.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.27 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 13752 would have to travel an average of 5.52 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, O'Connor Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 322 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 13752, Delancey, New York.

## Breathing Easy in Delancey: A Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 13752

The crisp air of the Catskills whispers through Delancey, New York, a town nestled in the heart of Delaware County. The scent of pine needles mixes with the faint, earthy aroma of the nearby farms, a constant reminder of the natural beauty that defines this corner of the world. But beyond the postcard-perfect landscapes, the community of 13752 faces the same silent adversary as anywhere else: the threat of lung cancer. This isn’t a medical diagnosis; it’s a community health assessment, a “Lung Cancer Score” if you will, designed to paint a picture of the factors impacting respiratory health and overall well-being in Delancey. We'll delve into the demographics, the lifestyle, the resources, and the unspoken realities that shape the community’s ability to breathe easy.

**The Scorecard: Understanding the Terrain**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a single number. Instead, it’s a mosaic, a collection of observations and insights gleaned from the landscape, the people, and the available data. We’ll consider various elements, assigning a qualitative assessment (Low, Moderate, High) to each, to build a comprehensive picture.

**1. Demographics: The Fabric of Delancey (Assessment: Moderate)**

Delancey, like many rural communities, has a unique demographic profile. The 2020 Census data reveals a population of approximately 500 residents within the 13752 ZIP code, a number that fluctuates slightly with seasonal residents and the ebb and flow of farm labor. The median age skews older, a common trend in rural areas, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This older demographic is a crucial factor, as age is a primary risk factor for lung cancer.

The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a small percentage of Hispanic or Latino residents, many of whom are involved in the agricultural sector. This diversity, though small, adds layers to the community’s needs and access to healthcare. Income levels are generally modest, reflecting the economic realities of a farming-based economy. Poverty rates, while not alarmingly high, are a concern, as financial constraints can limit access to healthcare, healthy food, and preventative measures.

**Vignette:**

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The sun casts long shadows across the fields. Old Man Hemlock, his face etched with the wisdom of the land, sits on his porch, puffing on a hand-rolled cigarette. He’s lived in Delancey his entire life, witnessed the changes, and carries the weight of his years. His health, like the aging barns scattered across the landscape, is a testament to the resilience of the community, but also a reminder of the vulnerabilities.

**2. Places to Live: Homes and Habitats (Assessment: Moderate)**

The housing landscape in Delancey is a mix of historic farmhouses, modest single-family homes, and a few newer constructions. The quality of housing varies, with some homes showing signs of age and potential exposure to environmental hazards. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a known concern in the region, and testing and mitigation are crucial for lung health.

The presence of older homes also raises the possibility of asbestos exposure, a known carcinogen, particularly during renovations. The availability of affordable housing is a constant challenge, and overcrowded living conditions can exacerbate health issues.

**Vignette:**

The old farmhouse on the edge of town, with its peeling paint and crooked windows, stands as a silent sentinel. Inside, generations have lived and breathed, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the land. The air, however, might carry unseen dangers – the silent threat of radon seeping from the earth below, or the lingering ghosts of asbestos from the days when the house was built.

**3. Healthy Lifestyle in Delancey: A Balancing Act (Assessment: Moderate)**

The lifestyle in Delancey offers both advantages and disadvantages for lung health. The access to fresh air and the abundance of outdoor spaces are significant benefits. The opportunity for physical activity, from hiking in the nearby Catskill Mountains to tending to gardens, is readily available. The slower pace of life can also reduce stress, a factor that can indirectly impact health.

However, the rural setting also presents challenges. Access to healthy food can be limited, especially during the winter months. The reliance on personal vehicles can contribute to air pollution, though it's generally less severe than in urban areas. The prevalence of smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer, may be higher in rural communities, although specific data for Delancey is not readily available.

**Vignette:**

The Delancey Diner, a local institution, hums with the chatter of residents. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon fills the air. The scene is idyllic, but the lingering scent of cigarette smoke, a common presence, hints at a less healthy reality. Outside, the rolling hills beckon, offering a chance for a brisk walk, a breath of fresh air, a chance to counter the risks.

**4. Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep (Assessment: High)**

Delancey is blessed with an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The proximity to the Catskill Park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and opportunities for exploring the natural world. The Delaware River provides a scenic backdrop for kayaking and canoeing. These activities encourage physical activity and provide a connection to nature, both beneficial for overall health.

The relatively low levels of air pollution, compared to urban areas, further enhance the benefits of outdoor recreation. However, the potential for exposure to allergens, such as pollen, can be a concern for some individuals.

**Vignette:**

The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. A group of friends, their faces flushed with exertion, returns from a hike in the Catskills. They share stories, laughter, and the invigorating feeling of having breathed in the clean mountain air. This is the essence of Delancey – the freedom to move, to explore, to connect with nature.

**5. Local Wellness Programs: The Support System (Assessment: Low)**

The availability of local wellness programs in Delancey is limited. The town is small, and resources are often stretched thin. The nearest hospital is a drive away, and specialized medical services may require travel to larger towns.

The presence of a community center or a local health clinic could be a valuable asset, offering health screenings, educational programs, and support groups. The lack of these resources underscores the need for increased investment in community health initiatives.

**Vignette:**

The community bulletin board at the general store, a hub of local information, is sparsely populated. A flyer for a flu shot clinic, a rare occurrence, is pinned alongside notices for lost pets and upcoming town meetings. The lack of readily available health resources reflects the challenges faced by a small, rural community.

**6. Neighborhood Vibe: Community Connections (Assessment: Moderate)**

Delancey has a strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, and there's a tradition of mutual support. This social cohesion can be a protective factor, as strong social networks can buffer against stress and provide emotional support.

However, the close-knit nature of the community can also create challenges. The stigma associated with certain health conditions, including lung cancer, can be amplified in a small town. Open communication about health concerns and access to support groups are crucial.

**Vignette:**

The annual Delancey picnic, a cherished tradition, brings the community together. Families gather, sharing food, laughter, and stories. The sense of belonging is palpable, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people. But beneath the surface, the unspoken anxieties about health and well-being linger.

**7. Environmental Factors: The Invisible Threats (Assessment: Moderate)**

Delancey's rural setting offers relative protection from some environmental hazards, such as industrial pollution. However, the agricultural practices in the area can introduce other concerns. The use of pesticides and herbicides, while regulated, can pose potential health risks. The proximity to farmland also means exposure to agricultural dust and other airborne particles.

Radon testing and mitigation are crucial in this region.

**Vignette:**

The wind whispers through the fields, carrying the scent of freshly tilled earth. But the air also carries unseen particles – the potential residue of agricultural practices, the invisible threat of radon seeping from the ground. The beauty of the landscape belies the potential for hidden dangers.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" - Putting it All Together**

Based on our assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Delancey, NY (13752) is a complex picture. The overall assessment leans towards **Moderate**, with pockets of both high and low scores.

* **Strengths:** Abundant outdoor recreation, strong community bonds, relatively low levels of air pollution.
* **Challenges:** Older demographics, limited access to local wellness programs, potential exposure to environmental hazards (radon, agricultural practices), possible higher smoking rates.

**Recommendations for Improving the Score**

To improve the community's "Lung Cancer Score," a multi-pronged approach is needed:

* **Increase Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased funding for local health clinics, mobile health units, and telehealth services.
* **Promote Preventative Measures:** Launch public awareness campaigns about the risks of smoking, the importance of radon testing, and the benefits of early detection.
* **Support Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage the development of community gardens, walking trails, and other initiatives that promote physical activity and access to healthy food.
* **Foster Community Dialogue:** Create opportunities for open conversations about health concerns, reduce stigma, and build support networks.
* **Advocate for Environmental Protection:** Support regulations that minimize exposure to environmental hazards, such as radon and agricultural chemicals.

**Conclusion: Breathing for the Future**

Delancey, with its natural beauty and strong community spirit, has the potential to thrive. By addressing the challenges and building on the strengths, the community can create a healthier environment for all its residents. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a judgment, but a starting point, a call to action. It's a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility, a journey that requires collaboration, compassion, and a commitment to breathing easy, together, for the future.