15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.21 percent of the residents in 15313 has some form of health insurance. 37.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15313 would have to travel an average of 9.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Penn Highlands Mon Valley. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,927 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of Beallsville: Unveiling the Lung Cancer Score in 15313

The air hangs thick and humid in Beallsville, Pennsylvania, a small town nestled in the rolling hills of Washington County. The scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the faintest whisper of coal dust, a lingering reminder of the region's industrial past. This is 15313, a ZIP code that holds a story, a heartbeat, and a complex relationship with its own health. We're here to delve into the community health landscape of Beallsville, specifically focusing on the factors that influence lung cancer risk, and ultimately, to understand the "Lung Cancer Score" of this unique corner of the world.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a conceptual framework. It's a way of understanding the interplay of environmental, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors that contribute to the potential for lung cancer within a community. In Beallsville, like any community, this score is a tapestry woven with threads of history, geography, and the daily lives of its residents.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Beallsville, with a population hovering around 400, is a tight-knit community. Driving down Main Street, you'll pass the weathered clapboard houses, the meticulously kept lawns, and the occasional pickup truck with a "Support Our Troops" sticker. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a significant portion of the population being older adults. This aging population, coupled with the historical presence of coal mining and related industries, immediately raises a red flag in our "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, watching the sun dip behind the distant hills. She's lived in Beallsville her entire life, raised her family here, and witnessed the ebb and flow of the town's fortunes. Her husband, a miner for 30 years, succumbed to black lung disease a decade ago. Her story, sadly, is not unique. The legacy of industrial exposure is etched into the very fabric of this community.

The economic landscape is another crucial factor. The median household income in 15313 is lower than the national average, and the unemployment rate can fluctuate. This can impact access to healthcare, including preventative screenings and early detection of lung cancer. Individuals with limited financial resources may delay seeking medical attention, leading to poorer health outcomes.

**Places to Live: Where the Air Meets the Soul**

The type of housing and the surrounding environment play a significant role in the "Lung Cancer Score." Beallsville offers a mix of housing options, from older, well-established homes to newer modular units. The age of the housing stock is a consideration, as older homes may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen.

Consider the old houses lining High Street. Their paint, chipped and peeling in places, might contain lead, another potential health hazard. The presence of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground, is also a concern in this region. Radon testing and mitigation are vital for protecting residents.

Beyond the immediate surroundings of homes, the overall environmental quality is essential. The proximity to industrial sites, even those no longer actively operating, can impact air quality. The lingering effects of past pollution can contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

**Healthy Lifestyle in Beallsville: A Balancing Act**

The concept of a "healthy lifestyle" in Beallsville is a complex one, a delicate dance between tradition and progress. The prevalence of smoking, a primary risk factor for lung cancer, is a critical element. While the national trend shows a decline in smoking rates, the rate within a community like Beallsville can vary. Social norms, peer pressure, and the availability of tobacco products all play a role.

Picture the local diner, "The Coal Miner's Cafe." The aroma of coffee and frying bacon fills the air. It's a gathering place, a hub of social interaction. You might see folks enjoying a cup of coffee and a cigarette, a familiar scene that underscores the challenge of changing deeply ingrained habits.

However, there are positive developments. Awareness of the dangers of smoking is growing, and there's a gradual shift towards healthier choices. Access to fresh produce, however, is limited in the area. The nearest grocery store with a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables might be a drive away. This can make it more challenging for residents to adopt a balanced diet, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty, and the Risks**

Beallsville's natural beauty is undeniable. The rolling hills, the winding country roads, and the nearby streams offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the fresh air can be incredibly beneficial for both physical and mental health.

Imagine a family taking a hike on a crisp autumn day, the vibrant colors of the foliage painting the landscape. This connection with nature can be a powerful antidote to the stresses of life and a source of inspiration.

However, the outdoor environment can also pose risks. Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as those from vehicle exhaust or agricultural runoff, can impact air quality and potentially increase the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The presence and effectiveness of local wellness programs are crucial for improving community health. Does Beallsville have access to resources for smoking cessation, cancer screenings, and health education? Are there initiatives to promote healthy eating and physical activity?

The local health clinic, while small, might offer vital services. Perhaps they host free lung cancer screenings or partner with local organizations to provide educational workshops. The success of these programs depends on community engagement, accessibility, and the availability of funding.

Consider the efforts of a local community group organizing a health fair. They might offer free blood pressure checks, provide information about lung cancer prevention, and promote healthy lifestyle choices. These small acts of community empowerment can have a significant impact on the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Power of Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" is an intangible yet powerful factor. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, can foster a supportive environment for health and well-being. Social isolation, on the other hand, can exacerbate health problems and increase the risk of negative health outcomes.

Picture a community potluck, where neighbors gather to share food, stories, and laughter. This sense of connection, of belonging, can be a powerful buffer against stress and adversity.

However, if the community is fractured, if there's a lack of trust and communication, it can hinder efforts to improve health outcomes. Addressing social determinants of health, such as poverty, lack of access to education, and inadequate housing, is essential for creating a healthy and thriving community.

**Calculating the "Lung Cancer Score" in 15313**

So, how would we calculate the "Lung Cancer Score" for Beallsville? It's not a simple number, but rather a composite assessment. We'd need to consider the following:

* **Demographic Data:** Age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial composition.
* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, radon levels, presence of asbestos in housing, and proximity to industrial sites.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates, access to healthy food, and levels of physical activity.
* **Healthcare Access:** Availability of healthcare providers, access to cancer screenings, and the presence of wellness programs.
* **Community Engagement:** Social cohesion, community support networks, and participation in health initiatives.

By analyzing these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Beallsville. We can identify areas where intervention is needed, such as promoting smoking cessation programs, improving access to healthcare, and addressing environmental hazards.

**The Future of Beallsville: A Breath of Hope**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 15313 is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's efforts to improve its health. By addressing the root causes of lung cancer risk, by fostering a culture of wellness, and by empowering residents to take control of their health, Beallsville can write a new chapter in its story.

Imagine a future where the air in Beallsville is cleaner, where smoking rates have plummeted, and where residents have access to the healthcare they need. Imagine a community where neighbors support each other, where healthy lifestyles are the norm, and where the legacy of industrial exposure is finally overcome. This is the breath of hope that sustains Beallsville, a community striving to breathe easier, to live longer, and to build a healthier future for generations to come. The journey is ongoing, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of community.