43113, Circleville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43113, Circleville, Ohio is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.97 percent of the residents in 43113 has some form of health insurance. 41.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.51 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43113 would have to travel an average of 1.72 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Berger Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,076 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43113, Circleville, Ohio.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (Or Not) in Circleville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43113)

The air hangs thick and sweet over Circleville, Ohio. Not always in a good way. Sometimes it's the scent of freshly tilled earth, the promise of a bountiful harvest from the sprawling fields that kiss the town's edges. Other times, it's the lingering tang of something else – the faint, unsettling echo of industry, of the past, of a health landscape that needs careful navigation. We're here to take a deep breath, a metaphorical one, and assess the "Lung Cancer Score" of Circleville's 43113 ZIP code. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the people, the places, and the potential for a healthier future.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Seeds of Risk**

Circleville, nestled in Pickaway County, is a town that feels both familiar and unique. The courthouse square, the heart of the community, is a testament to its history, a hub where generations have gathered. The population, hovering around 13,000, is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic/Latino population adding vibrant threads to the town's tapestry. The median age skews slightly older than the national average, a demographic factor that, combined with the region's history, subtly influences the potential for lung cancer risk.

The economic landscape is a crucial piece of the puzzle. While the cost of living in Circleville is generally affordable, income levels can vary. A significant portion of the population works in manufacturing, agriculture, and related industries – fields that, historically, have presented occupational hazards. Exposure to asbestos, silica, and other carcinogens in the workplace has left its mark on communities across the country, and Circleville is no exception. This legacy, coupled with the potential for lower access to healthcare and preventative screenings in certain demographics, contributes to the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a woman with hands weathered by years spent tending her garden, a garden that, in a different era, might have been fertilized with something less than ideal. She’s a pillar of the community, her laughter echoing through the farmers market on Saturday mornings. She's also a smoker, a habit etched into her daily routine, a habit that compounds the other risks. This isn’t a judgment; it’s a reality. And understanding realities is the first step towards change.

**Where We Live: The Home, the Neighborhood, and the Air We Breathe**

The physical environment plays a critical role in our health. Circleville offers a range of housing options, from charming Victorian homes lining Main Street to more modern developments on the outskirts. The quality of housing, the proximity to green spaces, and the overall aesthetic of a neighborhood can significantly impact residents' well-being.

Consider the quiet streets of the historic district. Tree-lined avenues, well-maintained lawns, and the gentle hum of life create a sense of peace. Yet, even here, the invisible threats lurk. Older homes might contain lead paint or asbestos, remnants of a bygone era. The air quality, while generally decent, can be affected by seasonal agricultural practices, particularly during harvest season.

Then there's the newer developments, the ones that have sprung up to accommodate the town's growth. These communities often boast modern amenities, but their location, sometimes closer to industrial areas or major roadways, can raise concerns about air pollution and exposure to environmental toxins.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about the air we breathe outside; it's about the air within our homes. The presence of smokers, the use of wood-burning stoves, and the lack of proper ventilation can all contribute to poor indoor air quality, a significant risk factor for lung cancer.

Picture Mr. Henderson, a retired factory worker, relaxing in his living room, the scent of his pipe tobacco mingling with the faint aroma of freshly baked bread. He's proud of his home, a testament to his hard work. But the smoke, the years of exposure, the lack of regular medical checkups – these are the silent companions that cast a shadow over his life.

**The Vibe: Community Spirit and Social Determinants of Health**

Circleville's neighborhood vibe is a complex blend of small-town charm and the challenges of a community grappling with economic shifts and evolving social norms. The sense of community is palpable, a feeling of shared history and mutual support. The annual Pumpkin Show, a four-day extravaganza, is a prime example of this spirit, drawing thousands of visitors and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

However, this sense of community can also mask underlying disparities. Access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe places to exercise are not always evenly distributed. Social isolation, poverty, and lack of access to education can all contribute to poorer health outcomes.

Imagine the young mother, struggling to make ends meet, juggling multiple jobs, and lacking the time or resources to prioritize her own health. She might live in a food desert, where fresh produce is scarce and processed foods dominate. She might lack transportation to access quality healthcare. These social determinants of health are powerful forces that can significantly impact an individual's risk of developing lung cancer.

**The Power of Prevention: Local Wellness Programs and the Path to a Healthier Future**

The good news is that Circleville is not standing still. A growing awareness of the importance of community health is fueling initiatives aimed at improving the "Lung Cancer Score." Local wellness programs, spearheaded by hospitals, community organizations, and local government, are working to address key risk factors and promote healthy lifestyles.

* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** These programs offer support, resources, and counseling to help smokers quit. They are crucial in reducing the leading cause of lung cancer.
* **Early Detection and Screening Initiatives:** Promoting lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as long-time smokers, can significantly improve survival rates.
* **Healthy Lifestyle Education:** Workshops and educational materials focusing on nutrition, exercise, and stress management can empower residents to make healthier choices.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Initiatives to improve air quality, such as advocating for cleaner energy sources and reducing industrial emissions, are vital.
* **Community Gardens and Farmers Markets:** These initiatives provide access to fresh, affordable produce, combating food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits.

Picture the bustling activity at the local YMCA, where a smoking cessation group meets weekly, offering support and encouragement. Imagine the community garden, where residents of all ages cultivate their own plots, learning about healthy eating and building connections. These are the seeds of change, the building blocks of a healthier future.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep and Finding Strength**

Circleville and the surrounding Pickaway County offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can contribute significantly to overall well-being. Parks, trails, and waterways provide spaces for physical activity, stress reduction, and a connection with nature.

* **Mary Virginia Crites Hannan Park:** This park offers walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces, providing opportunities for exercise and relaxation.
* **Scioto River Access:** Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Scioto River provide a chance to connect with nature and enjoy physical activity.
* **Local Bike Paths:** The development of bike paths and trails encourages cycling and outdoor recreation.

Imagine a group of friends cycling along a scenic bike path, the wind in their hair, the sun on their faces. They're laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. This is more than just recreation; it's a form of preventative care, a way to reduce stress, improve physical fitness, and foster a sense of community.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Circleville, Ohio (43113) is not a fixed number. It's a dynamic assessment, a reflection of the community's strengths, weaknesses, and the ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

The challenges are real: the legacy of industrial exposure, the prevalence of smoking, the social determinants of health that create disparities. But the potential for positive change is also immense. The strong sense of community, the growing awareness of health issues, and the commitment of local organizations to implement wellness programs are all reasons for optimism.

This is a call to action. It's a call for individuals to prioritize their health, to quit smoking, to get screened, to make healthy choices. It's a call for community leaders to invest in wellness programs, to advocate for clean air and a healthy environment, to address the social determinants of health.

It's a call for all of us to breathe a little easier, to work together to create a Circleville where the air is fresh, the community is strong, and the future is bright. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about the lives we save, the health we create, and the legacy we leave for generations to come.