14611, Rochester, New York Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14611, Rochester, New York is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.15 percent of the residents in 14611 has some form of health insurance. 59.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.22 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 14611 would have to travel an average of 1.76 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Strong Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,046 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 14611, Rochester, New York.

## Breathing Easy in 14611: A Deep Dive into Community Health

The crisp autumn air bites at your cheeks as you stroll down Dewey Avenue in Rochester's 14611. The scent of roasting chestnuts mingles with the exhaust of a passing bus, a familiar symphony of urban life. But beneath the surface of this bustling neighborhood, a more complex melody plays – the story of community health, a delicate balance of challenges and triumphs, of resilience and hope. This is the story of 14611, a ZIP code where the fight for healthy lungs, and a healthy life, is a constant, vital conversation.

We're not talking about a sterile medical report here. We're talking about the pulse of a community, the air it breathes, the spaces it inhabits, and the spirit that drives it forward. We're talking about the unspoken struggles, the quiet victories, and the unwavering determination to build a healthier future.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Life**

14611 is a microcosm of Rochester itself – a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of diversity. You see it in the faces that greet you at the corner store, in the languages spoken on the sidewalks, in the music spilling from open windows. The population skews younger than the city average, with a significant percentage of families raising children. This youthful energy fuels the neighborhood, but it also highlights the importance of preventative care and early intervention.

The median household income is lower than the city average, reflecting the economic realities faced by many residents. This economic pressure can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – all critical factors in lung health and overall well-being. It’s a challenge, but it's also a source of strength, a testament to the resourcefulness and community spirit that thrives in the face of adversity.

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

The physical environment of 14611 plays a significant role in its health profile. Proximity to major roadways, industrial areas, and older housing stock can contribute to air quality concerns. The presence of aging infrastructure, including lead paint and asbestos in some older homes, adds another layer of complexity. These environmental factors can exacerbate respiratory issues, increasing the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses.

Imagine a child playing on the porch of a brightly painted house, the air thick with the scent of exhaust from passing trucks. Or a senior citizen struggling to breathe on a humid summer day, the air heavy with pollutants. These are the realities that shape the health landscape of 14611.

**Places to Live: Housing, Homes, and Health**

The quality of housing in 14611 is a critical determinant of community health. Well-maintained homes with proper ventilation and insulation are essential for preventing respiratory problems. The presence of mold, pests, and other environmental hazards can significantly impact lung health, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Think of a family huddled together in a drafty apartment during a harsh Rochester winter, the cold seeping in through cracks in the walls. Or a single mother struggling to keep her home clean and safe, battling the constant threat of mold and mildew. These are the challenges that underscore the importance of affordable, safe, and healthy housing in 14611.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Community and Belonging**

Despite the challenges, 14611 boasts a strong sense of community. The streets are alive with activity – children playing in parks, neighbors chatting on porches, and local businesses bustling with customers. This vibrant social fabric is a powerful asset in the fight for community health.

Picture a group of volunteers planting a community garden, transforming a vacant lot into a source of fresh, healthy food. Or a neighborhood watch program fostering a sense of safety and security, encouraging residents to take care of each other. This is the spirit of 14611 – a spirit of resilience, mutual support, and unwavering hope.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Rochester: Opportunities and Challenges**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is paramount in the fight against lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. This includes encouraging healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation. But achieving these goals in 14611 requires addressing the specific challenges faced by the community.

Access to fresh, affordable produce can be a barrier for some residents. The prevalence of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores offering less healthy options can exacerbate this problem. Similarly, the availability of safe and accessible spaces for physical activity is crucial.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Vitality**

Fortunately, 14611 offers pockets of green space and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Parks like Maplewood Park and Seneca Park provide spaces for walking, running, and enjoying the fresh air. These parks are vital for promoting physical activity and reducing stress, both of which contribute to overall health and well-being.

Imagine a group of friends playing basketball in a local park, the laughter echoing through the trees. Or a family taking a leisurely stroll along the Genesee River, enjoying the beauty of nature. These are the moments that remind us of the importance of outdoor recreation in fostering a healthy lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: Champions of Change**

Several local organizations are working tirelessly to improve community health in 14611. These programs offer a range of services, including health screenings, educational workshops, and support groups. They are the champions of change, the unsung heroes who are making a real difference in the lives of residents.

Consider the impact of a free health clinic providing vital medical care to underserved populations. Or a community center offering cooking classes and nutrition education, empowering residents to make healthier choices. These programs are essential for building a healthier future in 14611.

**Smoking Cessation: A Critical Battleground**

Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. Addressing the high prevalence of smoking in 14611 is a critical priority. This requires a multi-pronged approach, including public awareness campaigns, access to smoking cessation programs, and support for those who are trying to quit.

Picture a support group meeting where individuals share their struggles and successes in quitting smoking, offering encouragement and hope to each other. Or a community outreach program providing free nicotine replacement therapy and counseling to smokers. These are the efforts that are making a difference in the fight against smoking in 14611.

**The Road Ahead: A Call to Action**

The fight for community health in 14611 is an ongoing journey, a marathon not a sprint. It requires a collaborative effort involving residents, community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government. It requires a commitment to addressing the root causes of health disparities, to promoting healthy lifestyles, and to creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

This means advocating for policies that support affordable housing, access to healthy food, and safe outdoor spaces. It means supporting local wellness programs and promoting smoking cessation efforts. It means fostering a sense of community and belonging, where residents feel empowered to take control of their health.

**A Vision for the Future**

Imagine a future where the air in 14611 is cleaner, where residents have access to healthy food options, and where everyone has the opportunity to live a long and healthy life. Imagine a community where children can play safely in parks, where seniors can enjoy the beauty of nature, and where everyone feels supported and cared for.

This is the vision that drives the community of 14611. It is a vision of hope, resilience, and unwavering determination. It is a vision that can be realized, one step at a time, one breath at a time. The fight for healthy lungs in 14611 is not just about preventing lung cancer; it's about building a healthier, more vibrant, and more equitable community for all. It's about breathing easy, together.