15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.11 percent of the residents in 15736 has some form of health insurance. 51.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.82 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15736 would have to travel an average of 25.55 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Punxsutawney Area Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,391 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania.

## The Elderton Breath: Unveiling the Lung Cancer Score in 15736

The air in Elderton, Pennsylvania, often hums with the quiet industry of rural life. The gentle susurrus of the Crooked Creek, the distant bark of a dog echoing from a farmhouse, the rhythmic clang of a hammer from a carpentry shop – these are the sounds that define the everyday in this Armstrong County enclave. But beneath this surface of tranquility, a silent threat lingers: lung cancer. And while the whispers of the disease touch every community, understanding its potential impact in 15736, Elderton, requires a deeper dive into the community's health, lifestyle, and environment. This is where our "Lung Cancer Score" comes in – a holistic assessment designed to illuminate the factors that shape Elderton's vulnerability and resilience.

**The Scorecard: More Than Just Numbers**

A "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about statistics; it's about weaving together the threads of a community's life. It considers demographics, access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and the presence of supportive resources. It's a portrait painted with data and lived experience, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities that Elderton faces in its fight against lung cancer.

**Demographics: A Snapshot of Elderton's People**

Elderton, with its population of approximately 300 residents, is a tight-knit community. The demographic profile reveals a predominantly white population, with a significant segment of residents over the age of 65. This aging population, coupled with the potential for a longer history of exposure to environmental factors, necessitates a heightened awareness of lung cancer risks. The close-knit nature of the community can be a strength, facilitating information sharing and support networks, but it also presents challenges in addressing sensitive health issues.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a lifelong Elderton resident, sitting on her porch swing, watching the sun dip behind the rolling hills. She's seen generations come and go, witnessed the ebb and flow of the community. She remembers the days when smoking was commonplace, a social ritual woven into the fabric of daily life. Now, she worries about the younger generation, the potential impact of environmental pollutants, and the availability of quality healthcare for herself and her neighbors.

**Places to Live: The Landscape of Risk and Resilience**

The housing landscape in Elderton is primarily characterized by single-family homes, many of which have stood for generations. The age of these homes raises potential concerns about radon exposure, a leading cause of lung cancer. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into homes from the soil. Regular radon testing and mitigation are crucial preventative measures.

Consider the Miller family, recently moved into a charming, but older, farmhouse just outside the borough. They’re excited about the peace and quiet, the open space for their children to play. But they also understand the importance of home maintenance, including radon testing. Their proactive approach, along with their commitment to a healthy lifestyle, can significantly influence their lung cancer risk.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Spirit and Social Connections**

Elderton's charm lies in its strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, lend a helping hand, and gather for local events. This social cohesion can be a powerful asset in promoting healthy behaviors and providing support for those affected by illness. The annual Elderton Community Day, with its potlucks and games, embodies this spirit.

Picture the town square, buzzing with activity during the annual Community Day. Families laughing, children running, the aroma of barbecue filling the air. This vibrant atmosphere underscores the importance of social connections. These bonds can be a lifeline for individuals facing health challenges, providing emotional support and practical assistance.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Elderton: The Pillars of Prevention**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is paramount in mitigating lung cancer risk. This includes smoking cessation, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and minimizing exposure to environmental hazards.

The local grocery store, while small, offers fresh produce, and the surrounding farmland provides opportunities for locally sourced food. The challenge lies in encouraging healthy eating habits and making nutritious options accessible and affordable.

Consider the local walking trails, winding through the forests and along the creek. These offer opportunities for physical activity and exposure to nature. Encouraging residents to utilize these resources, creating walking groups, and promoting outdoor recreation can significantly impact community health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Benefits**

Elderton's natural beauty is a significant asset. The Crooked Creek provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while the surrounding hills offer hiking trails and scenic vistas. Engaging in outdoor activities not only promotes physical health but also reduces stress and improves mental well-being.

Imagine a group of friends, hiking through the woods, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs. They’re laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying the beauty of their surroundings. This simple act of outdoor recreation is a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life and a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation of Support**

The availability of local wellness programs and healthcare resources is crucial. This includes access to primary care physicians, lung cancer screening programs, and smoking cessation support.

The local clinic, while small, plays a vital role in providing healthcare services. Strengthening its capacity, expanding its services, and ensuring access to specialists are essential.

Consider the potential for partnerships with regional hospitals and healthcare providers to offer free lung cancer screenings, educational workshops, and support groups.

**Environmental Factors: Assessing the Invisible Threats**

Environmental factors, such as radon exposure and air quality, can significantly impact lung cancer risk. Regular radon testing in homes and monitoring air quality are essential.

Imagine a local community group organizing a radon testing drive, providing free or low-cost testing kits to residents. This proactive approach can empower individuals to protect themselves and their families.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Elderton, 15736, is not just a number; it's a call to action. It highlights the strengths of the community, such as its strong social connections and access to outdoor recreation, while also identifying areas for improvement, such as the need for increased access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and addressing environmental risks.

The score can be used to:

* **Raise Awareness:** Educate residents about lung cancer risks and preventative measures.
* **Promote Healthy Behaviors:** Encourage smoking cessation, healthy eating, and regular physical activity.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to primary care physicians, lung cancer screenings, and smoking cessation programs.
* **Address Environmental Risks:** Promote radon testing and mitigation, and monitor air quality.
* **Foster Community Collaboration:** Encourage partnerships between local organizations, healthcare providers, and residents to address community health needs.

**The Future of Elderton: Breathing Easier Together**

Elderton has the potential to become a model for rural community health. By embracing a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention, by fostering a culture of wellness, and by working together, the residents of 15736 can create a healthier, more resilient community.

Imagine Elderton a decade from now: a community where residents are informed, empowered, and actively engaged in their own health. Where the air is clean, the homes are safe, and the spirit of community thrives. Where the whispers of lung cancer are replaced by the vibrant sounds of a healthy, thriving Elderton, breathing easier, together. The journey begins now, with a commitment to understanding the challenges, celebrating the strengths, and building a healthier future, one breath at a time.