44134, Cleveland, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44134, Cleveland, Ohio is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.51 percent of the residents in 44134 has some form of health insurance. 41.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44134 would have to travel an average of 5.40 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Metrohealth System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 51,035 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44134, Cleveland, Ohio.

## Breathing Easy in Brook Park: A Lung Cancer Score for 44134

The air hangs thick with the scent of freshly cut grass and the distant rumble of jets taking off from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. This is 44134, the ZIP code encompassing the city of Brook Park, a blue-collar community nestled on the southwestern edge of Cleveland. We're here to explore its community health landscape, specifically through the lens of lung cancer, a disease often influenced by environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and access to care. We'll be assigning a "Lung Cancer Score" – not a definitive diagnosis tool, but a comprehensive assessment of the factors that contribute to lung health within this specific community.

**The Score: A Complex Equation**

Our Lung Cancer Score will be built upon several key pillars: **Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors, Environmental Exposures, Lifestyle Choices, Access to Healthcare, and Community Resources.** Each pillar will be assessed, weighted, and ultimately combined to provide a holistic view of the community's vulnerability and resilience.

**Pillar 1: Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors – The Foundation**

The heart of 44134 beats with a working-class rhythm. Homes are often well-maintained, reflecting a sense of pride, but the economic realities are undeniable. According to recent data, the median household income in 44134 sits below the national average, and a significant percentage of residents are employed in manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing – industries historically associated with higher rates of exposure to hazardous materials.

Imagine Maria, a single mother working the evening shift at a nearby factory. Her days are long, and the pressure to provide for her children weighs heavily. She might not have the time or resources to prioritize preventative healthcare. This is a common narrative in communities like Brook Park, where financial constraints can significantly impact health outcomes.

The racial makeup of 44134 is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic population. Understanding these demographics is crucial. Certain racial and ethnic groups experience disparities in healthcare access and are disproportionately affected by lung cancer. We need to consider these nuances when evaluating the community's overall health.

**Score Impact:** Moderate Negative. The combination of lower income, potential occupational hazards, and potential healthcare access barriers creates a challenging foundation.

**Pillar 2: Environmental Exposures – The Air We Breathe**

The proximity to the airport is a double-edged sword. While it provides employment opportunities, it also contributes to air pollution. The constant stream of planes taking off and landing releases particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. This, coupled with the presence of industrial facilities, raises concerns about air quality.

Consider the children playing at the local park, their lungs developing in an environment potentially impacted by these pollutants. The long-term effects of these exposures are a critical factor in our assessment.

Furthermore, the presence of older homes in the area raises the possibility of radon exposure, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and is a leading cause of lung cancer.

**Score Impact:** Moderate Negative. The combination of airport proximity, potential industrial emissions, and the possibility of radon exposure warrants concern.

**Pillar 3: Lifestyle Choices – The Choices We Make**

This is where individual agency and community support intertwine. Smoking rates are a critical indicator of lung cancer risk. While national trends show a decline in smoking, the prevalence in 44134 needs to be carefully examined. Are there targeted smoking cessation programs available and accessible?

Beyond smoking, diet and exercise play a crucial role. The availability of fresh, affordable produce and opportunities for physical activity are essential. Does 44134 offer adequate access to healthy food options? Are there safe and accessible spaces for exercise, such as parks, walking trails, and community centers?

Picture John, a long-haul trucker who spends his days sitting behind the wheel. His access to healthy food is often limited, and his sedentary lifestyle increases his risk factors. His story highlights the importance of addressing lifestyle choices through community-based interventions.

**Score Impact:** Moderate Negative. The need for targeted smoking cessation programs, promoting healthy eating, and increasing opportunities for physical activity is evident.

**Pillar 4: Access to Healthcare – The Gatekeepers of Health**

Having access to quality healthcare is paramount. This includes access to primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative screenings, such as lung cancer screenings for those at high risk.

Does 44134 have a sufficient number of healthcare providers? Are there any barriers to accessing care, such as transportation issues, insurance limitations, or language barriers?

Imagine Sarah, experiencing a persistent cough, but hesitant to seek medical attention due to concerns about the cost of a doctor's visit and the potential for time off work. Her situation underscores the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare.

**Score Impact:** Moderate Negative. Addressing potential barriers to healthcare access and promoting preventative screenings is crucial.

**Pillar 5: Community Resources – The Support System**

This pillar focuses on the community's strengths and resources. Does 44134 have active community organizations dedicated to health and wellness? Are there local wellness programs, support groups for those affected by lung cancer, and educational initiatives to raise awareness?

Consider the Brook Park Senior Center, a hub for social activities and health programs. Such resources can play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles and providing support to vulnerable populations.

The presence of local parks and recreational facilities also contributes to the community's overall health. Are there opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as walking trails, bike paths, and community gardens?

**Score Impact:** Moderate Positive. Identifying and strengthening existing community resources is essential for improving lung health outcomes.

**The Final Score: A Call to Action**

Based on our assessment, the Lung Cancer Score for 44134 is **Moderate Negative**. This score reflects the challenges facing the community, including socioeconomic factors, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare. However, it also highlights the potential for improvement.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Targeted Smoking Cessation Programs:** Implement and promote accessible and affordable smoking cessation programs, tailored to the needs of the community.
* **Environmental Remediation:** Advocate for improved air quality monitoring and mitigation strategies to reduce exposure to pollutants.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Increase access to healthy food options, create safe and accessible spaces for physical activity, and promote healthy eating habits through community-based programs.
* **Improve Healthcare Access:** Address barriers to healthcare access, such as transportation issues and insurance limitations. Promote preventative screenings, including lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals.
* **Strengthen Community Resources:** Support and expand existing community organizations dedicated to health and wellness. Promote educational initiatives to raise awareness about lung cancer and its risk factors.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents to create a comprehensive approach to improving lung health.

**The Vibe of Brook Park: A Path Forward**

Despite the challenges, 44134 possesses a strong sense of community. The neighborhood vibe is one of resilience and determination. People look out for each other, and there's a palpable sense of pride in their homes and their community.

Imagine the annual Brook Park Festival, a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Families gather, children laugh, and the air is filled with the aroma of food and the sounds of music. This is the heart of 44134 – a community that cares.

By addressing the identified risk factors and implementing the recommended strategies, 44134 can improve its Lung Cancer Score and create a healthier future for its residents. This requires a collaborative effort, a commitment to change, and a shared vision of a community where everyone can breathe easy. The journey to improved lung health is a marathon, not a sprint. But with dedication and community spirit, 44134 can run the race and win. The air in Brook Park, after all, is worth fighting for.