43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.86 percent of the residents in 43019 has some form of health insurance. 31.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.76 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43019 would have to travel an average of 9.50 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Knox Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,260 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Fredericktown (ZIP Code 43019)

The crisp autumn air bites at your cheeks as you step out of the Fredericktown Library, the scent of woodsmoke clinging to the breeze. You can hear the faint thrum of a tractor in the distance, a familiar soundtrack to life in this corner of Knox County. This is 43019, a ZIP code that whispers of small-town charm and a slower pace of life. But beneath the surface of picturesque landscapes and friendly faces, lies a complex reality when it comes to community health, particularly concerning the shadow of lung cancer. This article delves into the heart of Fredericktown, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, providing a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" to help residents understand their risk and empower them to breathe easier.

**The Lay of the Land: A Snapshot of 43019**

Fredericktown, Ohio, is a community forged in the crucible of agriculture and a deep-rooted sense of community. The town square, dominated by the historic Knox County Courthouse, is the beating heart, where farmers gather for coffee, families stroll on summer evenings, and the annual Tomato Show brings the entire region together. The demographics of 43019 paint a picture of a predominantly white population, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 55. This aging demographic, coupled with the historical prevalence of farming and manufacturing jobs, can present unique challenges when it comes to lung cancer risk.

**Vignette 1: The Farmer's Market and the Legacy of Labor**

The aroma of freshly baked bread and ripe tomatoes fills the air at the Saturday morning Farmer's Market, held on the square. A farmer, his hands gnarled with years of toil, leans against his pickup truck, surveying his bounty. He's been working the land since he was a boy, breathing in the dust and fumes of pesticides, a silent risk factor that has accumulated over decades. He remembers the days when smoking was commonplace, a ritual shared amongst the workers. He sees the young families enjoying the market, the children laughing, and a pang of worry crosses his face. He knows the stories, the whispers of illness that have touched too many families in the community.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a simple number. It's a holistic evaluation, considering a range of factors that contribute to lung cancer risk and community health. We'll break down the key areas:

* **Environmental Factors:** This encompasses air quality, exposure to occupational hazards, and access to resources that mitigate environmental risks.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** This includes smoking rates, access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and the prevalence of substance abuse.
* **Healthcare Access:** This examines the availability of preventative care, early detection programs, and quality treatment options.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** This considers income levels, education, and social support networks, all of which can influence health outcomes.

**Environmental Factors: Breathing Deep and the Invisible Threats**

The air in Fredericktown, for the most part, is clean, a blessing of the rural setting. However, the legacy of agriculture and industry casts a long shadow. Exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals used in farming can increase the risk of lung cancer. Additionally, the proximity to major roadways and potential for industrial emissions from nearby towns require ongoing monitoring.

**Vignette 2: The Back Roads and the Hidden Risks**

Driving along the winding back roads, you pass fields of golden corn stalks, the sun glinting off the silos. A pickup truck rumbles past, kicking up a cloud of dust. You think about the unseen particles in the air, the potential for exposure to agricultural chemicals. You remember the stories of families who have lost loved ones to cancer, the questions that linger unanswered.

**Lifestyle Factors: Cultivating a Healthy Habit**

Smoking remains the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While smoking rates in 43019 may be similar to the national average, the impact can be amplified by the aging population and the potential for past exposure to occupational hazards. Access to cessation programs and support networks is crucial.

**Healthy Eating and Physical Activity:** Fredericktown offers opportunities for a healthy lifestyle. The Farmer's Market is a great source of fresh produce. The local parks and trails provide space for outdoor recreation. However, the availability of fast food restaurants and the potential for limited access to healthy food options in certain areas require attention.

**Vignette 3: The Community Center and the Power of Connection**

The Fredericktown Community Center buzzes with activity. Seniors are engaged in a yoga class, their faces etched with determination. Young families are gathered for a playgroup, the sound of laughter filling the air. The center offers a range of programs, from fitness classes to support groups, providing a vital network for residents. This is where people connect, share stories, and find strength in community.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. Fredericktown has a local clinic, but residents may need to travel to Mount Vernon or Columbus for specialized care. The availability of preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial for early detection.

**Vignette 4: The Doctor's Office and the Importance of Screening**

You sit in the waiting room of the local clinic, flipping through a magazine. You overhear a conversation between a doctor and a patient, discussing the importance of regular checkups and preventative screenings. The doctor stresses the need for early detection, the hope that comes with catching the disease in its early stages. You realize the power of proactive healthcare, the importance of being informed and empowered.

**Socioeconomic Factors: Building a Foundation for Health**

Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in health outcomes. Income levels, education, and social support networks can all influence access to healthcare, healthy food, and a safe environment. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving community health.

**Vignette 5: The Town Square and the Threads of Community**

You stroll through the town square, watching children play, neighbors chatting, and the rhythm of small-town life unfolding. You see the strength of the community, the bonds that connect people, the support systems that can make all the difference. You recognize the importance of building a strong foundation for health, a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Fredericktown has several local wellness programs that are making a positive impact:

* **The Knox County Health Department:** Offers resources and programs related to smoking cessation, healthy eating, and chronic disease prevention.
* **The Fredericktown Community Center:** Provides fitness classes, support groups, and educational programs.
* **Local Churches and Organizations:** Often host health fairs and provide information on preventative care.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Outdoors**

Fredericktown boasts several opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle:

* **Fredericktown Community Park:** Offers walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
* **Kokosing Gap Trail:** Provides a scenic pathway for walking, running, and biking.
* **Local Farms and Orchards:** Offer opportunities for seasonal activities and access to fresh produce.

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Belonging**

The neighborhood vibe in Fredericktown is one of warmth and connection. The strong sense of community fosters social support and encourages residents to look out for one another. This can have a positive impact on mental and physical health.

**Places to Live: A Variety of Options**

Fredericktown offers a range of housing options, from historic homes in the town center to newer developments on the outskirts. The availability of affordable housing is a plus, but the location of homes relative to amenities and potential environmental hazards should be considered.

**The Lung Cancer Score for 43019: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, we provide a preliminary "Lung Cancer Score" for 43019. Remember, this is a general assessment and individual risk can vary:

* **Environmental Factors:** Moderate Risk (due to agricultural practices and potential for exposure to chemicals)
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Moderate Risk (smoking rates, access to healthy food)
* **Healthcare Access:** Moderate Risk (access to specialized care)
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Moderate Risk (income levels, access to resources)

**Overall Lung Cancer Score: Moderate Risk**

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Increase access to smoking cessation programs and support networks.**
* **Promote healthy eating and physical activity through community initiatives.**
* **Expand access to preventative screenings, including low-dose CT scans.**
* **Advocate for policies that protect air quality and reduce exposure to environmental hazards.**
* **Strengthen community support networks and address socioeconomic disparities.**

**Conclusion: Breathing Easier Together**

Fredericktown, Ohio, is a community with a rich history, a strong sense of belonging, and a deep-rooted connection to the land. While the "Lung Cancer Score" indicates a moderate risk, this is not a cause for despair. It's a call to action. By understanding the risks, embracing healthy lifestyles, supporting local wellness programs, and advocating for improved healthcare access, residents of 43019 can work together to reduce their risk of lung cancer and breathe easier, together. The future of Fredericktown depends on it. The scent of woodsmoke, the thrum of the tractor, the laughter of children – these are the sounds of a community worth protecting.