44667, Orrville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44667, Orrville, Ohio is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.81 percent of the residents in 44667 has some form of health insurance. 32.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.25 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44667 would have to travel an average of 0.54 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Aultman Orrville Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,510 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44667, Orrville, Ohio.

## The Orrville Oxygen: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score in 44667

The crisp air of Orrville, Ohio, often carries the scent of freshly baked bread from the iconic Smucker's plant. It's a smell that evokes comfort, tradition, and a certain small-town charm. But beyond the familiar aromas and the friendly faces, lies a complex tapestry of community health, woven with threads of opportunity and challenge. This article dives deep into the "Lung Cancer Score" – not a formal metric, but a conceptual framework – to understand the factors influencing the health of residents in ZIP Code 44667, and to explore the potential for building a healthier future.

We're not just talking about statistics here. We're talking about the *lived experience* of the people of Orrville. We're talking about the air they breathe, the food they eat, the spaces they inhabit, and the choices they make, all of which contribute to their overall well-being and, ultimately, their vulnerability to lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Orrville**

Before we can assess the "Lung Cancer Score," we need to understand the people who call 44667 home. Orrville is a town that has seen its share of change, but its core identity remains firmly rooted in its agricultural heritage and its strong sense of community.

Imagine a Saturday morning at the Orrville Farmers' Market, a vibrant hub of activity. Farmers from the surrounding countryside proudly display their fresh produce – plump tomatoes, sweet corn, and the vibrant greens of leafy vegetables. Families stroll through the stalls, chatting with vendors, and filling their baskets with the bounty of the season. This scene reflects a potential strength: access to fresh, locally sourced food. But the reality is often more nuanced.

Orrville's population is predominantly white, with a smaller but growing Hispanic/Latino community. The median age hovers around 40, reflecting a mix of young families, working-age adults, and a significant senior population. This demographic balance presents both opportunities and challenges. The presence of young families suggests a need for robust childcare options, quality schools, and safe, accessible parks. The aging population necessitates attention to healthcare access, senior living facilities, and social support networks.

Economic factors play a crucial role. Orrville has a solid industrial base, with Smucker's being the largest employer. This provides stable jobs for many residents, but also creates a reliance on a single industry. The town’s unemployment rate, while generally below the national average, can fluctuate with economic shifts. This economic stability, while positive, doesn't automatically translate to optimal health. Income disparities, even within a seemingly stable community, can lead to unequal access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing, all of which can impact lung health.

**Places to Live: The Built Environment and Its Impact**

The physical environment of Orrville significantly influences its "Lung Cancer Score." Where people live, the quality of their housing, and the surrounding landscape all contribute to their health.

Consider the neighborhoods. Some areas boast well-maintained homes with manicured lawns and mature trees, creating a sense of pride and belonging. Others might show signs of aging infrastructure, with older homes and limited green spaces. The presence of lead paint in older homes, for example, can pose a serious health risk, particularly to children.

The proximity to industrial areas is another critical factor. While Smucker's has a positive impact on the local economy, its operations, like any industrial facility, can potentially contribute to air pollution. The presence of other industries, and the types of emissions they generate, need careful monitoring to ensure the air quality remains healthy.

Imagine a walk through Orr Park. The rustle of leaves, the laughter of children on the playground, the gentle flow of the creek – these are the elements of a healthy environment. But are there enough green spaces? Are they easily accessible to all residents, regardless of their location or mobility? The availability of parks, walking trails, and other outdoor recreation areas directly impacts residents' opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and exposure to fresh air.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Determinants of Health**

Beyond the physical environment, the "Lung Cancer Score" is heavily influenced by the "neighborhood vibe" – the social fabric of the community. This includes factors like social support, access to healthcare, and the prevalence of risky behaviors.

Picture a community gathering at the Orrville Public Library. This isn't just a place to borrow books; it's a hub for social interaction, educational programs, and access to information. Libraries, community centers, and faith-based organizations play a vital role in fostering social connections and providing support networks.

The availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. Does Orrville have enough primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals? Are there barriers to accessing care, such as transportation challenges or insurance limitations? Early detection and treatment of lung cancer are crucial, and this requires a robust healthcare infrastructure.

The prevalence of smoking is a major factor in lung cancer risk. While smoking rates have declined nationally, they may still be a concern in certain segments of the Orrville population. The availability of smoking cessation programs, coupled with strong anti-smoking campaigns, is essential.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Beyond**

Orrville offers several opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can have a positive impact on the "Lung Cancer Score."

The Killbuck Creek, meandering through the town, provides a scenic backdrop for walking, biking, and kayaking. The Orrville Sports Complex offers fields for various sports and recreational activities. The presence of these spaces encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

But are these spaces accessible to everyone? Are there enough safe bike paths and walking trails connecting different parts of the community? Are there programs and activities that cater to all age groups and abilities?

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

Orrville isn't just passively accepting its health challenges; it's actively working to improve the well-being of its residents.

The Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce often partners with local businesses and organizations to promote health initiatives. The Orrville City Schools may offer health education programs and promote healthy eating habits in school cafeterias. Local hospitals and healthcare providers likely offer free health screenings and educational workshops.

These local wellness programs are crucial. They provide residents with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to make healthier choices. They can focus on smoking cessation, healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management.

**The Orrville Oxygen: A Call to Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in Orrville, Ohio, is a complex equation. It's influenced by demographics, the built environment, the neighborhood vibe, outdoor recreation opportunities, and the availability of local wellness programs.

While Orrville possesses many strengths – a strong sense of community, a solid economic base, and access to outdoor recreation – there are also areas that require attention. Addressing potential air quality concerns, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting robust social support networks are all crucial steps towards improving the health of the community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about lung cancer. It's about the overall health and well-being of the people of Orrville. It's about creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to breathe clean air, eat healthy food, access quality healthcare, and live a long and fulfilling life.

The smell of freshly baked bread from Smucker's is a symbol of Orrville's enduring spirit. But the true measure of its success lies in the health and vitality of its people. By understanding the factors that influence the "Lung Cancer Score," Orrville can chart a course towards a healthier, more vibrant future – a future where the air is clean, the community is strong, and the Orrville Oxygen is pure and life-giving for everyone. This requires a collaborative effort – from local government to healthcare providers, from businesses to community organizations, and from individual residents to the collective whole. It’s a call to action, a challenge, and an opportunity to build a healthier Orrville, one breath at a time.