43528, Holland, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43528, Holland, Ohio is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.24 percent of the residents in 43528 has some form of health insurance. 28.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43528 would have to travel an average of 5.04 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, St Luke's Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,858 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43528, Holland, Ohio.

## The Breath of Holland: A Lung Cancer Score and the Pulse of Community Health in 43528

The air hangs crisp over Holland, Ohio, a town that hums with a quiet energy. It’s a place where neighbors wave from porches, the scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the subtle aroma of grilling burgers, and the distant rumble of a train occasionally punctuates the stillness. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic community, we need to take a deep breath and assess the health of its lungs – the health of its people, particularly in the context of lung cancer risk. This is not about statistics; it’s about the lived experience, the choices made, and the opportunities available within the 43528 ZIP code. This is a Lung Cancer Score, a holistic evaluation of community health, and a call to action for a healthier Holland.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Lives**

Holland is a mosaic, a blend of long-time residents and newcomers, families building futures, and individuals seeking a quieter pace. The median age hovers around 40, reflecting a community with a strong family focus. You see it in the playgrounds buzzing with laughter, the soccer fields alive with weekend games, and the well-maintained lawns that speak of pride in homeownership. The population is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic/Latino community adding vibrant cultural threads to the fabric of Holland. This diversity, while a strength, also presents unique challenges. Understanding the specific health needs of each demographic group is crucial for effective community health initiatives.

Imagine Maria, a grandmother who has lived in Holland her entire life. She remembers when the town was primarily farmland, the air thick with the scent of freshly plowed earth. Now, she sees more traffic, more development, and a different set of challenges facing her grandchildren. She worries about the choices they face, the pressures they feel, and the impact of these on their long-term health.

Then there's David, a young professional who recently moved to Holland with his wife and two children. He appreciates the affordability, the proximity to Toledo, and the sense of community. He's actively seeking ways to integrate into the town, looking for opportunities to connect with neighbors and build a healthy lifestyle for his family.

These are the faces of Holland, the people whose well-being defines the community's health.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of Health**

The homes in Holland are diverse, from cozy bungalows to spacious ranch-style houses, reflecting the varying needs and aspirations of its residents. The quality of housing is a critical factor in community health. Well-maintained homes, free from hazards like mold and lead, contribute to physical and mental well-being.

Consider the quiet cul-de-sacs lined with mature trees, where children ride bikes and neighbors chat on their front porches. These neighborhoods foster a sense of security and belonging, crucial components of a healthy community. But what about the areas with older housing stock? Are there resources available to help homeowners maintain their properties and address potential health risks?

The availability of affordable housing is another key factor. When families struggle with housing costs, they may have less money for healthy food, healthcare, and other essential needs. A healthy community ensures that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing, regardless of their income.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Connection and Support**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is intangible, yet profoundly impactful. It's the feeling of safety, the sense of belonging, the opportunities for social interaction. In Holland, the neighborhood vibe is generally positive, characterized by a strong sense of community and neighborly support.

Picture the annual block party on Heatherdowns Boulevard, where families gather to share food, play games, and catch up. Or the volunteer efforts at the local food bank, where residents come together to help those in need. These are the threads that weave a strong social fabric, providing a safety net for those who may be struggling.

However, even in a community like Holland, there can be pockets of isolation. The elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals facing economic hardship may find it difficult to connect with others. Addressing these challenges requires intentional efforts to foster social connections, such as community centers, senior programs, and accessible public spaces.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Fresh Air**

Holland boasts several parks and green spaces, offering residents opportunities to connect with nature and engage in physical activity. The Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, just a short drive away, provides miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and other outdoor pursuits.

Imagine a sunny afternoon at Monclova Township Park, where families are picnicking, children are playing on the swings, and joggers are enjoying a run along the paved paths. These spaces are vital for promoting physical and mental well-being, and for reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including lung cancer.

However, the accessibility and utilization of these outdoor spaces are crucial. Are the parks well-maintained and safe? Are there programs and activities to encourage residents of all ages and abilities to get active? Are there enough bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly routes to connect neighborhoods to these green spaces?

**Healthy Lifestyle in Holland: Choices and Challenges**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is essential for reducing the risk of lung cancer and other chronic diseases. This includes encouraging healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco use.

Consider the local grocery stores and farmers' markets. Are there readily available options for fresh, healthy foods? Are there initiatives to address food deserts and ensure that all residents have access to nutritious meals?

What about the prevalence of smoking? While smoking rates have declined in recent years, it remains a significant risk factor for lung cancer. Are there effective smoking cessation programs available in Holland? Are there policies in place to protect residents from secondhand smoke?

**Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Hope**

Holland is fortunate to have a number of local wellness programs and initiatives that are working to improve community health. These programs can play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the risk of lung cancer.

Imagine the local YMCA offering fitness classes, health screenings, and educational workshops. Or the local schools implementing comprehensive health education programs. These are examples of the proactive efforts being made to empower residents to take control of their health.

However, the effectiveness of these programs depends on their reach and accessibility. Are they reaching all segments of the community? Are they adequately funded and supported? Are they aligned with the specific needs and challenges of the residents of 43528?

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

Based on the factors discussed, we can begin to formulate a preliminary Lung Cancer Score for Holland, Ohio (43528). This is not a precise numerical score, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the available information.

**Strengths:**

* **Strong sense of community:** Fosters social support and reduces isolation.
* **Access to parks and green spaces:** Provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and physical activity.
* **Availability of local wellness programs:** Offers resources for promoting healthy lifestyles.
* **Generally well-maintained housing:** Contributes to physical and mental well-being.

**Challenges:**

* **Potential for disparities in access to resources:** Requires careful consideration of the needs of different demographic groups.
* **Need for increased focus on smoking cessation:** Addressing the ongoing risk of tobacco use.
* **Importance of promoting healthy eating habits:** Ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food options.
* **Need for ongoing assessment and improvement:** Continuously evaluating and adapting community health initiatives.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance community outreach and engagement:** Actively involve residents in the planning and implementation of health initiatives.
* **Expand smoking cessation programs:** Increase access to effective smoking cessation resources and support.
* **Promote healthy eating initiatives:** Support local farmers' markets, food banks, and community gardens.
* **Improve access to healthcare services:** Ensure that all residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare.
* **Invest in infrastructure that supports healthy lifestyles:** Enhance bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly routes, and public transportation options.
* **Regularly assess and evaluate community health initiatives:** Monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.

**The Future of Holland: Breathing Easier**

The Lung Cancer Score is not a final verdict, but a starting point. It's a call to action, a challenge to the residents of Holland to work together to create a healthier community. By addressing the challenges and building on the strengths, Holland can become a place where everyone has the opportunity to breathe easier, to live longer, and to thrive. It's a journey, not a destination, and the collective breath of Holland, its spirit of community, will be the wind in its sails. The future of Holland, its health, is in the hands of its people, one breath, one step, one choice at a time.