Lung Cancer Score

15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.43 percent of the residents in 15661 has some form of health insurance. 26.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.35 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15661 would have to travel an average of 1.43 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Excela Health Latrobe Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,532 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania.

Health Scores in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania

Lung Cancer Score 72
People Score 26
Provider Score 56
Hospital Score 63
Travel Score 79

Insurance Types

15661 Loyalhanna Pennsylvania
Employer Insurance 73.95 73.95 58.71
Direct Purchase Insurance 10.86 10.86 14.80
Medicare 15.54 15.54 19.53
Medicaid 14.02 14.02 19.77
TRICARE 0.00 0.00 1.43
VA 62.73 62.73 51.92

Percent Insured in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

15661 Loyalhanna Pennsylvania
Under 19 100.00 100.00 95.41
Adults (19-64 years) 95.80 95.80 92.43
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.56

People Score Review of 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Loyalhanna, PA (ZIP Code 15661)

The air hangs heavy sometimes in Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania, a tapestry woven with threads of rural charm and the ghosts of industry. Nestled in the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, this ZIP code, 15661, encompasses a patchwork of communities, each with its own rhythm and character. From the quiet lanes of New Alexandria to the bustling heart of Derry Township, understanding the community's health, and its vulnerability to lung cancer, requires a deep dive, a breath taken, and a careful assessment. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the lives lived within these borders, the choices made, and the environment that shapes them.

Our "Lung Cancer Score" for 15661 isn't a single, definitive metric. Instead, it's a composite picture, a mosaic built from demographics, lifestyle factors, access to resources, and the very air residents breathe. It's about identifying the vulnerabilities and celebrating the strengths of this community, ultimately aiming to empower residents to take control of their health.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience and Risk**

The first brushstroke on our canvas is the demographic profile. Loyalhanna, like many rural areas, has a significant aging population. The median age here skews older than the national average, a fact that inherently increases the risk of age-related diseases, including lung cancer. This aging demographic also implies a potential for a higher prevalence of pre-existing conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart disease, which can exacerbate the impact of lung cancer.

The economic landscape is another critical factor. While the cost of living in 15661 is generally considered affordable, pockets of poverty exist. Lower socioeconomic status often correlates with limited access to healthcare, preventative screenings, and healthy food options. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer treatment outcomes for those battling lung cancer.

Consider the story of Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident of New Alexandria. She remembers the days when coal dust coated everything, a constant reminder of the industry that fueled the region. Now in her late 70s, she's a pillar of the community, but the lingering effects of those years – the persistent cough, the shortness of breath – are a daily battle. Her story, unfortunately, echoes across the landscape.

The racial makeup of 15661 is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other racial groups. While this might seem straightforward, it's crucial to remember that health disparities can exist within any community. Factors like access to culturally competent healthcare and awareness of specific health risks within different sub-populations are vital considerations.

**Places to Live: The Landscape of Exposure**

The very fabric of where people live in 15661 contributes to the overall health profile. The housing stock varies, from well-maintained single-family homes in Derry Township to more modest dwellings in the surrounding areas. The age of homes can be a factor, as older homes might contain asbestos or radon, two known carcinogens.

Imagine the old Victorian houses that line the main street of Derry. They are beautiful, steeped in history, but also potentially harboring hidden dangers. Similarly, the rural setting, with its reliance on well water, necessitates regular testing for contaminants, including radon.

The proximity to industrial sites, past and present, is another key consideration. While the coal mines of yesteryear are largely gone, the legacy of their impact lingers. Soil contamination and air quality can be affected, particularly in areas closer to former industrial operations. This underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and community awareness.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Connections and Support Systems**

Beyond the physical environment, the social fabric of 15661 plays a crucial role in community health. The sense of community, the connections between neighbors, and the availability of social support systems can significantly impact a person's well-being and their ability to cope with a cancer diagnosis.

Picture the weekly bingo night at the Derry Volunteer Fire Department. It's more than just a game; it's a gathering place, a source of social connection, and a lifeline for many seniors. The bonds forged in these settings can provide crucial emotional support and practical assistance during times of illness.

Conversely, social isolation, a growing concern in many rural communities, can be a significant risk factor. Limited access to transportation, the decline of local businesses, and the out-migration of younger generations can contribute to a sense of loneliness and disconnection. This can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, further increasing the risk of lung cancer.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Loyalhanna: A Breath of Fresh Air (or Not?)**

The choices people make every day have a profound impact on their health. Smoking, of course, is the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While smoking rates are declining nationally, they remain a concern in some rural areas.

Consider the local convenience store, a hub for many residents. The visibility of tobacco products, the ease of access, and the potential for peer pressure all contribute to the prevalence of smoking. Community-based interventions, such as smoking cessation programs and public awareness campaigns, are critical to combatting this risk.

Diet and exercise are equally important. The availability of healthy food options, access to grocery stores, and the prevalence of fast-food restaurants all influence dietary habits. In 15661, the presence of local farmers' markets and community gardens offers a positive counterpoint, providing access to fresh produce and promoting healthy eating habits.

Physical activity is another key component of a healthy lifestyle. The availability of parks, trails, and recreational facilities is crucial.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural Beauty**

Fortunately, 15661 boasts a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. The rolling hills and wooded areas offer ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Imagine the winding trails of Keystone State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The opportunity to breathe fresh air, exercise, and connect with nature can significantly improve physical and mental well-being, potentially mitigating some of the risks associated with lung cancer.

The presence of local parks and community centers also provides spaces for organized sports and recreational activities, fostering a sense of community and encouraging healthy habits.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Stronger Community**

The availability of local wellness programs and healthcare resources is critical to improving community health. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals is essential for early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Consider the role of the local hospital, Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, in providing screenings and treatment for lung cancer. The availability of these services, coupled with community outreach programs, can make a significant difference in survival rates.

The presence of support groups, such as those offered by the American Lung Association, can provide invaluable emotional support and practical guidance for individuals and families affected by lung cancer.

**The Air We Breathe: Environmental Factors**

The quality of the air residents breathe is a fundamental factor in lung cancer risk. While Loyalhanna is not known for severe air pollution, the legacy of industry and the potential for radon exposure are important considerations.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors air quality, but individual actions can also make a difference. Reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, avoiding outdoor activities during periods of high pollution, and ensuring proper ventilation in homes are all important steps.

**Putting It All Together: A Call to Action**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" for 15661 is a complex picture, a tapestry woven with threads of risk and resilience. The aging population, the potential for environmental exposures, and the lingering effects of industry all contribute to the community's vulnerability. However, the strong sense of community, the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, and the availability of local wellness programs offer hope and a path towards improved health.

The key to improving the "Lung Cancer Score" lies in a multi-faceted approach:

* **Increased Awareness:** Educating residents about the risks of lung cancer, the importance of early detection, and the availability of screening programs.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Providing accessible and effective smoking cessation resources.
* **Healthy Lifestyle Promotion:** Encouraging healthy eating habits, promoting physical activity, and creating a supportive environment for making healthy choices.
* **Environmental Monitoring:** Ensuring the ongoing monitoring of air quality, radon levels, and other environmental factors.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address the specific needs of the community.

The story of Loyalhanna, PA, is not yet written in stone. It's a story in progress, a narrative shaped by the choices we make, the resources we utilize, and the commitment we have to building a healthier community. By taking a deep breath, assessing the landscape, and working together, we can strive to ensure that everyone in 15661 has the opportunity to breathe easy, free from the shadow of lung cancer.

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