43450, Pemberville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43450, Pemberville, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.27 percent of the residents in 43450 has some form of health insurance. 33.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.99 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43450 would have to travel an average of 9.46 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wood County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,530 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43450, Pemberville, Ohio.

## The Pemberville Pulse: Taking the Lung Cancer Score Pulse in 43450

The air in Pemberville, Ohio, hums with a quiet energy. It's the kind of energy that comes from generations rooted in the land, from neighbors who know each other's names, from a community that understands the value of a good harvest and a helping hand. But beneath the surface of this idyllic small town, like in any community, lurks the potential for health challenges. This is where the Lung Cancer Score, a measure of community health, becomes a vital tool. We're not just looking at numbers; we're peering into the heart of 43450, understanding its strengths, and identifying areas where we can cultivate a healthier future, specifically with a focus on lung cancer prevention and overall well-being.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of Pemberville**

Before we delve into the specifics, let’s sketch a picture of the people who call Pemberville home. The 2023 census data paints a portrait of a predominantly white community, reflecting the historical settlement patterns of this region. The median age leans towards the older side, a testament to the long-term residents and the appeal of a slower pace of life. Families are a cornerstone, with a significant percentage of households having children, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the local schools and parks.

Economically, Pemberville is a working-class community, with a strong agricultural base. Farms dot the landscape, and the rhythms of planting and harvesting dictate the seasons. This connection to the land fosters a sense of self-sufficiency and a deep appreciation for fresh, local produce. However, this also means a potential exposure to agricultural chemicals and dust, which can be a contributing factor to respiratory health issues. Furthermore, the economic realities can sometimes limit access to healthcare and healthy food options, factors that directly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Thrives**

Imagine this: a crisp autumn morning in Pemberville. The air is filled with the scent of burning leaves and the distant rumble of a tractor. Children are bundled in jackets, their laughter echoing from the playground at the Pemberville Elementary School. The school itself is a hub of activity, hosting everything from parent-teacher meetings to community events. The annual Pemberville Fair is a highlight, drawing residents from miles around to celebrate the harvest and showcase local talent.

The heart of the community beats at the Pemberville Public Library, a cozy haven filled with books, computers, and a sense of belonging. It’s a place where people gather, share stories, and access vital information. The library often hosts health-related workshops and provides resources for those seeking information on preventative care.

The neighborhood vibe is friendly and welcoming, but it's not without its challenges. The close-knit nature of the community can sometimes lead to a reluctance to discuss sensitive topics like health concerns. This is where the Lung Cancer Score comes in, acting as a catalyst for open conversations and proactive measures.

**Places to Live: Shaping the Environment**

The housing landscape in 43450 is diverse, ranging from historic farmhouses to modern suburban homes. The availability of affordable housing is generally good, but older homes may present potential health risks like lead paint or asbestos, which can exacerbate respiratory problems.

The proximity to nature is a major draw. The Maumee River flows nearby, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the beauty of the water. Parks and green spaces, like the Pemberville Community Park, provide spaces for outdoor recreation and physical activity. The availability of these spaces contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score, offering opportunities for residents to engage in activities that promote lung health.

However, the reliance on cars for transportation is prevalent. This can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle and contribute to air pollution, particularly during peak traffic hours. The lack of sidewalks and bike paths in some areas further limits opportunities for physical activity.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Pemberville: A Call to Action**

A healthy lifestyle is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life, and in Pemberville, it’s a work in progress. The Lung Cancer Score helps us understand the factors that influence this lifestyle and identify areas for improvement.

**Diet and Nutrition:** The abundance of local farms provides access to fresh produce, a cornerstone of a lung-healthy diet. The Pemberville Farmers Market, held during the growing season, is a vibrant testament to this. However, access to healthy food options can be limited for some residents, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation. Encouraging community gardens and providing nutrition education are crucial steps to improving the Lung Cancer Score in this area.

**Physical Activity:** The opportunities for outdoor recreation are plentiful, but they need to be leveraged. Promoting walking and biking trails, organizing community fitness events, and encouraging participation in local sports teams can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

**Smoking Cessation:** This is a critical area. The prevalence of smoking, even in small communities, can be a significant contributor to lung cancer. Providing access to smoking cessation programs, offering support groups, and educating residents about the dangers of smoking are essential. The Pemberville Public Library can play a crucial role by providing information and resources.

**Air Quality:** While Pemberville enjoys relatively good air quality compared to larger cities, it's not without its challenges. The burning of wood for heating, agricultural practices, and vehicle emissions can all contribute to air pollution. Promoting cleaner energy sources, encouraging carpooling, and educating residents about the impact of air quality on lung health are vital steps.

**Local Wellness Programs: Strengthening the Foundation**

Pemberville is not starting from scratch. Several local initiatives are already contributing to the community's health and well-being.

**The Pemberville Senior Center:** This vital resource provides a range of programs and services for seniors, including health screenings, exercise classes, and social activities. These programs contribute to a healthier lifestyle and can help detect potential health issues early.

**The Wood County Health Department:** This agency provides essential public health services, including health education, disease prevention, and access to healthcare resources. They can play a crucial role in implementing smoking cessation programs, promoting healthy eating, and providing information about lung cancer screening.

**Local Churches and Community Organizations:** These groups often serve as hubs for community support and outreach. They can partner with healthcare providers to offer health screenings, educational workshops, and support groups.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

The natural beauty of Pemberville offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is essential for lung health.

**The Pemberville Community Park:** This park provides a safe and accessible space for walking, running, playing, and simply enjoying the outdoors.

**The Maumee River:** This river offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, providing both physical activity and a connection to nature.

**Hiking and Biking Trails:** Developing and maintaining trails that connect different parts of the community and provide access to natural areas is crucial.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Path Forward**

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a roadmap. It highlights areas where the community excels and identifies areas where improvement is needed.

**Data Collection and Analysis:** Gathering data on smoking rates, air quality, access to healthcare, and other relevant factors is the first step. This data can be used to calculate a Lung Cancer Score and track progress over time.

**Community Education and Awareness:** Educating residents about the risks of lung cancer, the importance of early detection, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle is crucial. The Pemberville Public Library, local schools, and community organizations can play a vital role in this effort.

**Collaboration and Partnerships:** Working together is essential. Healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents must collaborate to implement effective programs and initiatives.

**Policy Changes:** Advocating for policies that support a healthy environment, such as smoke-free public spaces, improved air quality regulations, and access to healthy food options, can have a significant impact on the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Future of Pemberville: A Breath of Fresh Air**

The future of Pemberville is bright. By focusing on community health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing the specific challenges identified by the Lung Cancer Score, the community can create a healthier and more vibrant future for all its residents. It's a journey that requires dedication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to well-being. As the sun sets over the fields of Pemberville, painting the sky with hues of orange and gold, we can envision a community where the air is clean, the people are healthy, and the spirit of resilience thrives. It's a vision worth striving for, one breath at a time.