44217, Creston, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44217, Creston, Ohio is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.11 percent of the residents in 44217 has some form of health insurance. 31.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44217 would have to travel an average of 7.43 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lodi Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,030 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44217, Creston, Ohio.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Creston, Ohio (ZIP Code 44217)

The air hangs thick and humid over Creston, Ohio, on a late summer afternoon. The scent of freshly cut grass, mingling with the faintest whiff of exhaust from a passing pickup truck, is a familiar olfactory tapestry woven into the fabric of this small, rural community. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic scene, a silent threat lurks: lung cancer. And in the heart of Wayne County, within the boundaries of ZIP code 44217, understanding the community health landscape is crucial to battling this formidable disease. This is our Lung Cancer Score assessment for Creston.

**The Scorecard: A Holistic View**

Our Lung Cancer Score goes beyond simple statistics. We're not just looking at incidence rates, though those are important. We're diving deep into the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk and, crucially, the factors that can protect the residents of Creston. We’ll examine demographics, access to healthcare, the prevalence of risk factors, the availability of wellness programs, and the overall community environment. We'll assess the "breathing room" available to residents, both literally and figuratively.

**Demographics: The People of Creston**

Creston, population hovering around 2,000, is a tight-knit community. Driving through town, you see the predictable hallmarks of rural Ohio: well-maintained lawns, American flags waving proudly, and the gentle hum of everyday life. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a significant older population. This aging demographic is a crucial factor in our assessment. Older individuals are, statistically, at a higher risk of developing lung cancer, regardless of other risk factors.

The economic landscape is largely blue-collar, with many residents working in agriculture, manufacturing, and related industries. This can translate to a higher potential exposure to environmental hazards, such as dust, fumes, and other airborne pollutants, which can contribute to lung cancer risk. Furthermore, economic realities often dictate access to healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices.

**Places to Live: Where the Air is (or Isn't) Clean**

The housing stock in Creston is a mix of older, well-established homes and newer developments. The age of a home is relevant. Older homes may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen, used in insulation and other building materials. While asbestos exposure is a historical concern, it remains a potential risk factor for residents.

The location of a home also matters. Proximity to agricultural operations can mean exposure to pesticides and herbicides, which can be inhaled. Similarly, homes near industrial sites may face a higher risk of air pollution. We must consider the prevailing wind patterns and their potential to carry pollutants across the community.

Imagine a family, the Millers, living on the edge of town. Their house, a charming two-story with a porch swing, backs onto a field that’s regularly sprayed with pesticides. The aroma of freshly cut hay is often punctuated by the acrid scent of chemicals. Their children play outside, oblivious to the potential risks. This is the reality for many families in Creston, and it underscores the importance of understanding environmental exposures.

**Risk Factors: The Invisible Enemies**

Beyond the obvious – smoking – other risk factors contribute to the lung cancer equation. Smoking rates in Creston, while not readily available, are likely similar to other rural communities in Ohio. This means a significant portion of the population may be current or former smokers.

But the story doesn't end with cigarettes. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a silent killer. It seeps into homes from the soil and is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Testing for radon is crucial, and the availability of radon mitigation services is an important component of our score.

Then there's the issue of occupational exposure. As mentioned earlier, many residents work in industries that expose them to potential carcinogens. Understanding the prevalence of these exposures and the safety measures in place is vital.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the System**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. Does Creston have a local clinic? Are there readily available primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists? The proximity to hospitals and cancer treatment centers is also critical. Long travel times for appointments and treatments can be a significant barrier to care.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a retired schoolteacher, experiencing a persistent cough. She needs a quick appointment with a doctor, a thorough examination, and potentially, a chest X-ray. Does she have easy access to these services? Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of health insurance is a crucial factor. The ability to afford screenings, treatments, and medications is directly linked to survival rates.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Despite the challenges, Creston isn't a community without resources. The local YMCA, the senior center, and even the local churches can play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles.

Imagine the YMCA offering a smoking cessation program, a yoga class for seniors, or a community garden where residents can grow their own fresh produce. These initiatives can help reduce risk factors, promote healthy eating habits, and foster a sense of community.

The availability of these programs, their accessibility, and their effectiveness are all key components of our score.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Social Fabric**

The "neighborhood vibe" refers to the social and environmental factors that influence health. Does Creston have a strong sense of community? Are residents connected to each other? Do they support each other? A strong social network can provide support and encouragement, especially for those facing health challenges.

The presence of parks, walking trails, and other recreational opportunities is also important. Does Creston offer spaces where residents can be active and enjoy the outdoors? Physical activity is a key factor in reducing lung cancer risk and improving overall health.

Imagine the annual Creston Days festival, a vibrant celebration of community spirit. The laughter, the music, the shared meals – these are the threads that weave together the social fabric of the town. A strong community can be a powerful force in promoting health and well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Fresh Air**

The availability of outdoor recreation opportunities is directly linked to community health. Does Creston have access to parks, walking trails, or green spaces? The opportunity to exercise and enjoy the outdoors can significantly reduce lung cancer risk and improve overall health.

Imagine a family taking a leisurely stroll along a walking trail, the children laughing as they chase butterflies. This simple act of enjoying the outdoors can have a profound impact on their physical and mental well-being.

The quality of the air in these outdoor spaces is also critical. Air pollution from traffic, industry, and other sources can negate the benefits of outdoor recreation.

**The Score: A Work in Progress**

Compiling a definitive Lung Cancer Score for Creston requires more in-depth data collection and analysis. However, based on the factors we've examined, we can begin to formulate a preliminary assessment.

**Areas of Strength:**

* **Strong Community Spirit:** Creston appears to have a close-knit community, which can provide support and encouragement.
* **Rural Setting:** The rural setting offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, though air quality must be considered.

**Areas of Concern:**

* **Aging Population:** The older demographic increases the risk of lung cancer.
* **Potential Occupational Exposures:** The prevalence of blue-collar industries raises concerns about occupational hazards.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of healthcare services and specialists needs further investigation.
* **Smoking Rates:** Smoking remains a significant risk factor.
* **Environmental Factors:** Potential exposure to radon, pesticides, and air pollution needs assessment.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Promote Smoking Cessation Programs:** Implement and promote accessible smoking cessation programs.
* **Radon Testing and Mitigation:** Encourage widespread radon testing and provide resources for mitigation.
* **Occupational Safety Education:** Educate residents about occupational hazards and promote workplace safety measures.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable healthcare.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Support and expand local wellness programs, including exercise classes, community gardens, and healthy eating initiatives.
* **Monitor Air Quality:** Monitor air quality and address sources of pollution.
* **Community Education:** Raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and early detection.

**Conclusion: Breathing for a Healthier Future**

The Lung Cancer Score for Creston, Ohio, is a work in progress. By understanding the community's strengths and weaknesses, we can work together to create a healthier environment for all residents. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community leaders, residents, and local organizations. By addressing the risk factors, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring access to quality healthcare, Creston can breathe easier and build a future free from the shadow of lung cancer. The air in Creston, and the lives of its residents, deserve nothing less.