The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14569, Warsaw, New York is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 14569 has some form of health insurance. 46.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.81 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 14569 would have to travel an average of 1.09 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wyoming County Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 550 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 14569, Warsaw, New York.
Health Scores in 14569, Warsaw, New York
Lung Cancer Score | 11 |
---|---|
People Score | 50 |
Provider Score | 28 |
Hospital Score | 15 |
Travel Score | 30 |
14569 | Warsaw | New York | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 53.13 | 53.13 | 55.61 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 14.85 | 14.85 | 13.15 |
Medicare | 23.76 | 23.76 | 17.48 |
Medicaid | 24.03 | 24.03 | 25.93 |
TRICARE | 3.17 | 3.17 | 0.88 |
VA | 54.68 | 54.68 | 51.90 |
Percent Insured in 14569, Warsaw, New York
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
14569 | Warsaw | New York | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 97.53 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 94.47 | 94.47 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.14 |
## The Warsaw Windpipe: Breathing Easy in 14569 – A Lung Cancer Score Deep Dive
The air crackles with a certain energy in Warsaw, New York, a town nestled in the rolling hills of Wyoming County. It's a place where the scent of freshly turned earth mingles with the crisp autumn air, where the laughter of children echoes from the town square, and where a sense of community, strong and resilient, permeates every corner. But beneath the surface of this idyllic setting lies a complex reality, one that demands a careful examination of its community health, particularly its vulnerability to lung cancer. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives of the people who call 14569 home, their choices, their environment, and the resources available to them. This is the Warsaw Windpipe: a deep dive into the factors that contribute to, and detract from, the lung cancer risk in this unique corner of New York.
**The Scorecard: Gauging the Breath of Warsaw**
We're not just crunching numbers here. We're painting a picture, a vibrant portrait of Warsaw's health landscape. To understand the potential for lung cancer risk, we'll look at several key areas, assigning a "score" based on available data and qualitative observations. Think of it as a breath-by-breath assessment of Warsaw's lung health.
**1. Demographics: The Tapestry of Warsaw (Score: 6/10)**
Warsaw, like many rural communities, boasts a demographic profile that presents both strengths and challenges. The population hovers around 3,500, a close-knit community where faces become familiar and neighborliness is a way of life. The median age leans towards the older side, with a significant percentage of residents in the 55+ age bracket. This is crucial, as age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.
Imagine Mrs. Gable, a lifelong resident, sitting on her porch swing, watching the leaves change. She’s seen generations grow up in Warsaw, and she remembers the days when smoking was commonplace. Now, she worries about her own health, and the health of her neighbors. The aging population, coupled with a historical prevalence of smoking, means Warsaw has a higher baseline risk.
The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other racial groups. Socioeconomic factors are also relevant. While Warsaw offers a relatively affordable cost of living, pockets of poverty exist. Limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, and preventative care can exacerbate health disparities and contribute to increased risk.
**2. Lifestyle Choices: Breathing In, Breathing Out (Score: 5/10)**
Lifestyle choices are the cornerstone of lung health. This is where Warsaw’s strengths and weaknesses truly reveal themselves.
Let's picture a Friday night at the Warsaw Diner. The air is thick with the aroma of coffee and sizzling bacon. Groups of friends and families gather, sharing stories and laughter. The presence of smoking in public spaces has diminished significantly over the years, a testament to local health initiatives. This is a positive sign.
However, the prevalence of smoking in the past casts a long shadow. While smoking rates have decreased nationally, the lingering effects of past habits remain. The legacy of smoking, even if individuals have quit, can still contribute to increased lung cancer risk.
Diet and exercise play a critical role. Warsaw offers access to fresh produce at local farmers' markets, a great opportunity for healthy eating. But the availability of fast food and processed options can also influence dietary choices. The level of physical activity is another key factor. Opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant, as we'll see later, but sedentary lifestyles are a concern.
**3. Environmental Factors: The Air We Breathe (Score: 7/10)**
Warsaw's location in a rural setting provides a significant advantage when it comes to air quality. The air is generally clean, free from the heavy industrial pollution that plagues many urban areas.
Imagine a crisp morning hike along the Letchworth State Park trails, just a short drive from Warsaw. The air is pure, filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. This natural environment is a significant asset, promoting lung health.
However, environmental factors still play a role. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into homes and is a known carcinogen. Regular radon testing is crucial. Also, exposure to secondhand smoke, even in a less smoking-prevalent environment, remains a risk.
**4. Access to Healthcare: The Gateway to Wellness (Score: 6/10)**
Access to quality healthcare is paramount in preventing and treating lung cancer. Warsaw benefits from a local hospital, Wyoming County Community Health System, offering a range of services, including primary care and specialist consultations.
Consider the Warsaw Family Health Center. It's a hub of activity, offering preventative care, screenings, and support for those at risk. The availability of these services is a positive sign.
However, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, may require travel to larger cities like Rochester or Buffalo. This can pose challenges for those with limited transportation options or financial constraints. Early detection through regular screenings, like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial, and the availability of these services locally is a key factor.
**5. Local Wellness Programs and Initiatives: Breathing Life into the Community (Score: 7/10)**
Warsaw is not passive in its approach to community health. Several local programs and initiatives are actively working to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce lung cancer risk.
Picture the Warsaw YMCA. It's a vibrant center of activity, offering fitness classes, wellness programs, and support groups. These initiatives promote physical activity, healthy eating, and stress reduction, all crucial for lung health.
The local health department plays a vital role in providing education, resources, and outreach programs. Smoking cessation programs, lung cancer awareness campaigns, and community health fairs are all contributing to a healthier Warsaw. The success of these programs is a testament to the community's commitment to its well-being.
**6. Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community (Score: 8/10)**
The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of community health. Warsaw's strong sense of community, its close-knit atmosphere, and its supportive social networks are significant assets.
Imagine a community potluck at the Warsaw Town Park. Neighbors gather, sharing food, laughter, and support. This sense of connection is powerful.
A strong community fosters a sense of belonging, reduces social isolation, and encourages healthy behaviors. The ability to lean on neighbors, to share concerns, and to support each other through difficult times is invaluable. This social support system can be a critical factor in helping individuals cope with the challenges of lung cancer.
**7. Outdoor Recreation: The Breath of Fresh Air (Score: 9/10)**
Warsaw is blessed with an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, offering residents a chance to connect with nature and promote physical activity.
Picture a sunny afternoon at Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East." Hiking trails wind through stunning gorges, offering breathtaking views and a chance to breathe in the fresh air. The Genesee River provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
The availability of these outdoor activities encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being. These are all protective factors against lung cancer. The proximity to parks, trails, and natural beauty is a significant advantage for Warsaw residents.
**8. Places to Live: The Fabric of Home (Score: 7/10)**
The quality of housing and the overall living environment play a crucial role in community health. Warsaw offers a range of housing options, from historic homes to modern developments.
Imagine a quiet street lined with well-maintained houses, each with its own character and charm. The availability of affordable housing is a positive factor.
However, the age of some homes may pose challenges. Older homes may require lead paint abatement or asbestos removal. The quality of indoor air, the presence of mold, and the overall safety of the living environment are all important considerations.
**Overall Assessment: A Breath of Hope**
Based on our deep dive, Warsaw, New York, receives an overall Lung Cancer Score of 6.8/10. This score reflects a community with both strengths and challenges. The clean air, strong community, and abundant outdoor recreation are significant assets. The aging population, historical smoking prevalence, and access to specialized healthcare present challenges.
**Recommendations for a Healthier Warsaw:**
* **Promote Early Detection:** Increase awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines and encourage high-risk individuals to get screened.
* **Enhance Smoking Cessation Programs:** Expand access to smoking cessation resources and support groups.
* **Increase Awareness of Radon:** Promote radon testing and mitigation in homes.
* **Support Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and stress reduction through community programs.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Ensure that all residents have access to affordable healthcare and specialist consultations.
* **Foster Community Engagement:** Continue to build on the strong sense of community, fostering a supportive environment for all residents.
**The Future of the Warsaw Windpipe:**
The story of Warsaw's lung health is not a static one. It's a dynamic narrative, constantly evolving. By understanding the factors that influence lung cancer risk, and by taking proactive steps to address these challenges, Warsaw can breathe easier. The community's commitment to its well-being, its resilience, and its unwavering spirit will be the driving force behind a healthier future. The Warsaw Windpipe will continue to breathe with hope, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a community that cares.
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