The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15056, Leetsdale, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.70 percent of the residents in 15056 has some form of health insurance. 33.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.08 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 15056 would have to travel an average of 2.15 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Heritage Valley Sewickley. In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,157 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15056, Leetsdale, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15056, Leetsdale, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 95 |
---|---|
People Score | 61 |
Provider Score | 96 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 61 |
15056 | Leetsdale | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 63.90 | 63.90 | 58.71 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 16.21 | 16.21 | 14.80 |
Medicare | 26.30 | 26.30 | 19.53 |
Medicaid | 12.72 | 12.72 | 19.77 |
TRICARE | 1.23 | 1.23 | 1.43 |
VA | 46.37 | 46.37 | 51.92 |
Percent Insured in 15056, Leetsdale, Pennsylvania
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
15056 | Leetsdale | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 95.41 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 94.04 | 94.04 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.56 |
## The Air We Breathe, The Life We Build: Unpacking Lung Cancer Score in Leetsdale, PA (ZIP Code 15056)
The air hangs thick and heavy with the scent of the Ohio River, a constant presence in Leetsdale. It’s a smell that carries whispers of industry, of history, of the very lifeblood that has coursed through this small borough for generations. But it’s also a scent that, for some, carries a more insidious undertone – the potential threat of lung cancer.
This isn't just a statistic. It's a story woven into the fabric of our community. It’s about the people who live here, the choices they make, the environment they inhabit, and the resources available to them. This article aims to unpack the concept of a "Lung Cancer Score" for Leetsdale, PA (ZIP Code 15056), not as a rigid number, but as a multifaceted understanding of the community's health landscape. We'll delve into the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk, explore the unique character of Leetsdale, and highlight opportunities for building a healthier future.
**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**
Leetsdale, nestled along the Ohio River, is a borough that feels both connected and somewhat isolated. Its population, hovering around 3,500, is a tapestry of long-time residents and newcomers drawn to the relatively affordable housing and proximity to Pittsburgh. The median age skews older, reflecting a demographic that has seen the ebb and flow of industry and the changing tides of the American economy. This aging population, coupled with a history of industrial activity, creates a complex health profile.
Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered from years of gardening, her face etched with the stories of a life lived in Leetsdale. She remembers the days when the air carried a different kind of scent, a more acrid one, a reminder of the factories that once lined the riverbank. She’s seen friends and neighbors succumb to illnesses, a stark reminder of the environmental challenges of the past.
The housing stock in Leetsdale reflects its history. Victorian homes stand shoulder-to-shoulder with more modern developments, creating a charming but sometimes challenging landscape. Some homes, built before stricter environmental regulations, may harbor hidden risks, like lead paint or radon exposure. This is where the “score” begins to take shape – the understanding that the very structures we live in can contribute to our health risks.
**The River's Legacy and the Air We Inhale**
The Ohio River is both a blessing and a potential source of concern. Its beauty is undeniable, a shimmering ribbon that defines Leetsdale's identity. But the river also carries the weight of industrial history. While regulations have significantly improved air quality, the legacy of past pollution lingers.
Consider the story of Mr. Rossi, a retired steelworker. He spent his working life inhaling the dust and fumes of the mill, a sacrifice made for the livelihood of his family. Now, years later, he walks the riverfront, enjoying the fresh air, but the shadow of his past exposure casts a long shadow.
Air quality monitoring in the region is crucial. Understanding the levels of particulate matter, ozone, and other pollutants in the air we breathe is paramount. This data, combined with information about industrial activity and traffic patterns, helps paint a more accurate picture of the community's environmental risks.
**Lifestyle Choices: The Building Blocks of Health**
Beyond environmental factors, individual choices play a significant role in lung cancer risk. Smoking, of course, remains the leading preventable cause. The prevalence of smoking within the community, as well as the availability of resources for cessation, are critical components of the “score.”
Imagine the young mother pushing a stroller along the riverfront trail. She’s determined to live a healthier life for herself and her child. She’s joined a local walking group, embracing the opportunity to connect with others and build a stronger, healthier community.
Diet and exercise are equally vital. The availability of fresh, healthy food options, the presence of parks and recreational facilities, and the promotion of physical activity all contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Leetsdale has a small-town charm, which can sometimes translate to limited access to fresh produce and readily available exercise options. This is where community initiatives and local wellness programs can make a tangible difference.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**
Leetsdale is not without its strengths. The community spirit is palpable, and there's a growing awareness of the importance of preventative health. Local organizations are stepping up to address the needs of the community.
Think of the Leetsdale Public Library. It's not just a repository of books; it's a hub for information and resources. They might host workshops on healthy cooking, offer free screenings for lung cancer, or partner with local healthcare providers to provide smoking cessation programs.
The local YMCA, if present, could be a vital asset, offering fitness classes, youth programs, and a sense of community. The presence of a robust YMCA, or similar organization, can significantly impact the "score" by providing opportunities for exercise and social connection.
**Neighborhood Vibe: Building a Supportive Ecosystem**
The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial, yet often overlooked, factor. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, where social support networks are in place, can have a profound impact on health outcomes.
Picture the annual Leetsdale Community Day. It's a celebration of the borough, a time for residents to come together, to connect, and to build relationships. These events foster a sense of belonging, reducing social isolation and promoting overall well-being.
A vibrant neighborhood also encourages open communication about health concerns. If residents feel comfortable discussing their health challenges, they are more likely to seek help and support. This open dialogue can lead to earlier detection of lung cancer and improved outcomes.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into the Community**
Leetsdale's proximity to the Ohio River and its surrounding green spaces offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. The riverfront trail, if well-maintained, provides a space for walking, running, and cycling. Nearby parks and nature reserves offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the natural world.
Imagine a group of friends kayaking on the river, the sun glinting off the water. They're not just enjoying a recreational activity; they're also breathing in fresh air, getting exercise, and connecting with nature.
The availability and accessibility of these outdoor spaces are critical. Are the trails well-maintained? Are there safe places for children to play? Are there opportunities for organized outdoor activities? The answers to these questions contribute to the "score" by reflecting the community's commitment to promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
**Places to Live: A Matter of Choice and Awareness**
The places we live, the homes we inhabit, can directly impact our health. As mentioned earlier, older homes may pose risks related to lead paint, asbestos, and radon exposure. The "score" needs to consider the age of the housing stock, the availability of resources for home inspections, and the promotion of healthy home practices.
Consider the young couple, newly arrived in Leetsdale, eager to start a family. They're researching the area, looking for a safe and healthy place to raise their children. They're asking questions about air quality, potential environmental hazards, and the availability of healthcare services. Their choices, guided by awareness and access to information, will directly impact their family's health.
**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier Leetsdale**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for Leetsdale (15056) isn't a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health landscape, a call to action for residents, local organizations, and government officials.
Here are some key areas for improvement:
* **Enhance Air Quality Monitoring:** Advocate for more comprehensive air quality monitoring in the area and make the data readily available to the public.
* **Promote Smoking Cessation:** Expand access to smoking cessation programs and resources, including free nicotine replacement therapy and counseling.
* **Support Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage healthy eating habits by supporting farmers' markets, community gardens, and access to fresh produce. Promote physical activity by investing in parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
* **Raise Awareness:** Educate residents about lung cancer risk factors, early detection, and available resources.
* **Foster Community Engagement:** Encourage collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and residents to build a stronger, healthier community.
* **Address Environmental Hazards:** Provide resources for home inspections and remediation of environmental hazards, such as lead paint and radon.
By addressing these areas, Leetsdale can actively work to improve its "Lung Cancer Score," creating a healthier environment for all its residents. The air we breathe, the life we build, is a shared responsibility. Leetsdale, with its strong community spirit and its proximity to natural beauty, has the potential to thrive, to become a beacon of health and well-being. It's a journey that requires collective effort, a commitment to change, and a deep appreciation for the precious gift of life.
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