44907, Mansfield, Ohio Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44907, Mansfield, Ohio is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.77 percent of the residents in 44907 has some form of health insurance. 48.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.74 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44907 would have to travel an average of 1.47 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,329 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44907, Mansfield, Ohio.

## Breathing Easy in 44907: A Lung Cancer Score for Mansfield's Heart

The air hangs heavy in 44907, a ZIP code that cradles a significant portion of Mansfield, Ohio. You can almost taste the history here, a blend of industrial grit and small-town charm, a place where generations have built their lives and livelihoods. But beyond the familiar brick facades and the echoes of factory whistles, a silent adversary lurks: lung cancer. This article isn't about statistics; it's about the lived experience, the pulse of community health in 44907, and how we, as residents, can collectively breathe a little easier.

We're not just looking at numbers; we're painting a picture. We're talking about the air people breathe, the food they eat, the spaces they inhabit, and the support systems they have in place. We're assessing a "Lung Cancer Score" not based on abstract data, but on the concrete realities of life in this corner of Ohio.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience**

44907 is a melting pot. The tapestry is woven with threads of different backgrounds, ages, and economic realities. The median household income hovers below the national average, a stark reminder of the economic challenges many residents face. This impacts everything, from access to quality healthcare to the ability to afford nutritious food. The population skews slightly older, with a significant percentage of residents in the 65+ age bracket. This demographic, often more vulnerable to chronic diseases, underscores the importance of preventative care and accessible healthcare options.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered by years of tending her small garden behind her modest home on Orchard Street. She's a fixture in the neighborhood, her porch light a beacon of warmth. But the cost of her medication, the struggle to get to her doctor's appointments, these are the daily battles she wages, battles that can impact her overall health, including her risk of lung cancer.

Then there's young Marcus, a recent high school graduate, eager to start his life. He's working a demanding job at the local factory, hoping to build a future. The air quality around the industrial areas, the long hours, the pressure to succeed – these are the silent pressures he faces, pressures that can subtly erode his health.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Blend of Challenges and Community Spirit**

The "vibe" of 44907 is a complex one. There's a palpable sense of community, a resilience born from shared experiences. Neighbors look out for each other, offering a helping hand, a friendly conversation. This social fabric is a crucial asset in the fight against lung cancer.

Consider the annual block party on Park Avenue. Tables laden with potluck dishes, laughter echoing in the evening air, children chasing fireflies. This is the essence of 44907: a sense of belonging, of shared joy. However, the proximity of industrial sites, the occasional waft of less-than-fresh air, these are the realities that linger in the background, impacting the overall health of the community.

The challenge lies in transforming this inherent community spirit into proactive health initiatives. Can we leverage the block parties to offer free health screenings? Can we organize walking groups to promote exercise and fresh air? Can we create a network of support for those battling illness?

**Places to Live: A Spectrum of Housing and Environmental Considerations**

The housing landscape in 44907 is diverse, ranging from well-maintained single-family homes to older apartment complexes. The condition of housing can directly impact health. Mold, poor ventilation, and exposure to environmental toxins can all contribute to respiratory problems and increase the risk of lung cancer.

Picture the quaint bungalows on Marion Avenue, their front yards meticulously kept, a testament to pride of ownership. Compare this to the aging apartment buildings on Ashland Road, where maintenance might be lacking, and the potential for exposure to environmental hazards is greater.

The proximity of homes to industrial areas is another critical factor. The potential for air pollution, the presence of particulate matter, these are concerns that need to be addressed. The city has initiatives to monitor air quality, but more can be done to inform residents and mitigate potential risks.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Opportunities**

Despite the challenges, 44907 offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. Parks like Liberty Park provide green spaces for walking, jogging, and simply enjoying nature. These spaces are vital for promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning at Liberty Park. The leaves are ablaze with color, the air is fresh, and families are enjoying a leisurely stroll. This is the antidote to the stresses of daily life, the opportunity to breathe deeply and connect with nature.

But access to these green spaces isn't always equitable. Some residents may lack transportation, or the parks may not be easily accessible. Furthermore, the quality of the air, even in these parks, can be affected by pollution from nearby sources.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope**

Several local wellness programs are already making a difference in 44907. The Mansfield-Richland County Public Library, for instance, offers health and wellness workshops, providing valuable information and resources to the community. Local clinics provide free or low-cost health screenings, including those for lung cancer.

Imagine attending a free health screening at the local clinic. The nurse, with a warm smile, explains the importance of early detection. The information empowers residents to take control of their health.

The key is to amplify these existing programs, to make them more accessible, and to tailor them to the specific needs of the community. This includes:

* **Expanding outreach:** Reaching out to underserved populations, including those with limited access to transportation or healthcare.
* **Offering culturally sensitive programs:** Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of the residents and tailoring programs accordingly.
* **Promoting smoking cessation:** Providing resources and support to help residents quit smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer.
* **Advocating for cleaner air:** Working with local authorities to address air pollution concerns.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the "Lung Cancer Score" for 44907? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment, reflecting the interplay of demographics, neighborhood vibe, housing conditions, access to outdoor recreation, and the availability of local wellness programs.

It's a score that highlights both the challenges and the opportunities. The challenges include economic disparities, potential exposure to environmental hazards, and the need for increased access to healthcare. The opportunities lie in the strong sense of community, the existing wellness programs, and the potential to create a healthier environment.

The score is a call to action. It's a reminder that we, as residents, have the power to improve the health of our community. We can:

* **Support local businesses that prioritize health and wellness.**
* **Advocate for cleaner air and a healthier environment.**
* **Participate in local wellness programs and encourage others to do the same.**
* **Connect with our neighbors and build a stronger, more supportive community.**
* **Educate ourselves and others about the risks of lung cancer and the importance of early detection.**

The fight against lung cancer in 44907 is not just a medical battle; it's a community effort. It's about creating a place where everyone can breathe easier, where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. It's about building a future where Mrs. Gable can tend her garden with ease, where Marcus can pursue his dreams without compromising his health, and where the air in 44907 is filled not just with history, but with the promise of a healthier tomorrow.