44093, Williamsfield, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44093, Williamsfield, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.63 percent of the residents in 44093 has some form of health insurance. 23.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.20 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44093 would have to travel an average of 36.54 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lake Health. In a 20-mile radius, there are 74 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44093, Williamsfield, Ohio.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Williamsfield (ZIP Code 44093)

The air hangs crisp and clean over Williamsfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 44093). Fields of corn and soybeans stretch towards the horizon, punctuated by the occasional farmhouse, a testament to the area's deep agricultural roots. This is Ashtabula County, a place where the rhythm of life slows, where neighbors know each other, and where the fight for community health, particularly against a formidable foe like lung cancer, is a shared endeavor. But how well is Williamsfield breathing? Let's dive into a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a look at the factors influencing the health of this community, and the steps being taken to ensure its residents can breathe easy for years to come.

**The Scorecard: A Holistic View**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about the number of diagnoses. It's a complex evaluation, considering factors that contribute to lung cancer risk, as well as the resources and opportunities available to mitigate that risk and promote overall well-being. We’ll look at:

* **Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors:** Understanding the population's makeup, income levels, and access to healthcare is crucial.
* **Environmental Factors:** Assessing air quality, proximity to potential hazards, and the availability of green spaces.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Examining smoking rates, access to healthy food, and opportunities for physical activity.
* **Healthcare Access & Resources:** Evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, screening programs, and support services.
* **Community Engagement & Awareness:** Gauging the level of local initiatives and the community's collective commitment to health.

**Demographics: A Portrait of Williamsfield**

Williamsfield is a small, rural community. According to the latest census data, the population hovers around 600 residents. This tight-knit nature fosters a sense of community, but also presents unique challenges. The median age tends to be higher than the national average, reflecting a trend of young people leaving for opportunities elsewhere. This aging demographic can mean a higher prevalence of age-related health issues, including an increased risk of lung cancer.

Income levels in Williamsfield are generally modest. This can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and preventative care. The community is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other ethnicities. This homogeneity can create a strong sense of belonging, but it's also important to ensure that health resources are accessible and culturally sensitive to all residents.

**Vignette:**

*The porch swing creaks rhythmically on Mrs. Gable's front porch. She's been a fixture in Williamsfield for seventy years, her weathered hands holding a mug of steaming coffee. "Used to be," she says, her voice raspy from years of smoking, "everyone smoked. Back then, no one knew the harm it could do." She gestures towards the rolling fields. "Now, folks are wising up. See them walking those country roads more and more. That's a good sign."*

**Environmental Factors: Breathing Deep or Holding Your Breath?**

The rural setting of Williamsfield offers a significant advantage: generally good air quality. The absence of heavy industry and traffic congestion contributes to cleaner air, reducing exposure to pollutants that can increase lung cancer risk. However, the agricultural landscape presents its own set of considerations.

Pesticide and herbicide use in farming practices can potentially expose residents to harmful chemicals. The potential for exposure to agricultural runoff, including nitrates, in the water supply is another area of concern. Regular water testing and awareness of potential environmental hazards are critical for protecting community health.

**Vignette:**

*The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. A farmer, his face etched with the day's work, walks his dog along a dirt road. The air smells of freshly turned earth and distant woodsmoke. He pauses, takes a deep breath, and smiles. "It's good to be out here," he says. "Feels like you can really breathe."*

**Lifestyle Factors: Choices that Shape Health**

The lifestyle choices of Williamsfield residents play a significant role in their lung cancer risk. Smoking remains the most significant risk factor. While smoking rates have declined nationally, they may still be a concern in rural communities. Access to smoking cessation programs and resources is crucial.

Diet and exercise are also critical components of a healthy lifestyle. Limited access to grocery stores with fresh produce can make it challenging to eat a balanced diet. The availability of opportunities for physical activity, such as walking trails or community sports programs, is also essential.

**Vignette:**

*The aroma of freshly baked bread wafts from the Williamsfield Community Center. A group of women, their faces flushed with exertion, are emerging from a Zumba class. Laughter and chatter fill the air. A flyer on the bulletin board announces a new farmers' market initiative, promising fresh, local produce. "We're trying to make healthy choices easier," says the instructor, wiping her brow. "It's about building a healthier community, one step at a time."*

**Healthcare Access & Resources: The Front Lines of Defense**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. Williamsfield is served by a small network of healthcare providers, including family doctors and specialists in nearby towns like Andover and Jefferson. The availability of regular checkups, screenings, and early detection programs is crucial for improving outcomes.

Awareness of lung cancer symptoms and the importance of early detection is also vital. Community health initiatives, educational programs, and support groups can play a significant role in empowering residents to take control of their health.

**Vignette:**

*The waiting room at the local clinic is quiet, filled with the gentle hum of conversation. A young woman, her face etched with worry, waits for her appointment. She's a former smoker, and the recent cough has her concerned. The doctor's office is a beacon of hope, offering screenings and support. The nurse’s calm reassurance is a balm. “We’re here for you,” she says. “We’ll get through this together.”*

**Community Engagement & Awareness: A Collective Effort**

The strength of a community lies in its ability to come together. In Williamsfield, local organizations, churches, and community groups are actively involved in promoting health and well-being. The Williamsfield Community Center serves as a hub for various activities, including exercise classes, educational workshops, and social events.

Raising awareness about lung cancer, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting those affected by the disease requires a collaborative effort. Community-based initiatives, such as health fairs, educational campaigns, and support groups, can play a vital role in fostering a culture of health and wellness.

**Vignette:**

*A group of volunteers is setting up tables and banners in the town square. It's the annual health fair, a vibrant celebration of community health. Doctors, nurses, and health educators are on hand to provide information and answer questions. Children play games, and families enjoy healthy snacks. The air is filled with a sense of hope and optimism, a shared commitment to building a healthier future for Williamsfield.*

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

The character of a community is reflected in its homes and neighborhoods. Williamsfield offers a mix of housing options, from historic farmhouses to more modern residences. The availability of affordable housing is a crucial factor in promoting community stability and attracting new residents. The sense of belonging and the strong social fabric of the community are major draws.

**The Score: A Work in Progress**

Based on our assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Williamsfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 44093) is a work in progress. The community benefits from its rural setting, strong social ties, and dedicated community members. However, challenges remain, including an aging population, potential environmental exposures, and the need for increased access to healthcare and healthy lifestyle resources.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Increase access to smoking cessation programs and resources.**
* **Promote healthy eating habits through farmers' markets and nutrition education.**
* **Expand opportunities for physical activity, such as walking trails and community sports programs.**
* **Enhance healthcare access, including regular screenings and early detection programs.**
* **Strengthen community engagement through health fairs, educational campaigns, and support groups.**
* **Advocate for environmental protections to reduce exposure to potential hazards.**
* **Foster intergenerational programs to promote healthy lifestyles across all age groups.**

**The Future: Breathing Easy Together**

The fight against lung cancer in Williamsfield is not a battle fought in isolation. It's a collective effort, a testament to the community's resilience and its commitment to the well-being of its residents. By addressing the challenges and embracing the opportunities, Williamsfield can continue to build a healthier future, where everyone can breathe easy and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, from the scent of freshly turned earth to the warmth of a friendly neighbor. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action, a reminder that community health is a shared responsibility, and that the journey to a healthier Williamsfield is a journey worth taking, together.