15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 15938 has some form of health insurance. 36.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15938 would have to travel an average of 13.70 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Altoona. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,240 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in Lilly: Unveiling the Lung Cancer Score & Cultivating Community Health in 15938

The air hangs crisp and clean over the rolling hills of Lilly, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15938), a borough nestled in the heart of Cambria County. But beneath the surface of this idyllic landscape, a silent enemy lurks: the potential for lung cancer. This isn’t a condemnation, but a call to action. This is about understanding the community health of Lilly, about equipping its residents with the knowledge and resources to breathe easier, and to actively build a healthier future.

This article isn't just about numbers; it's about the people. It's about the friendly wave from Mrs. Gable as she tends her prize-winning petunias, the rumble of the school bus picking up eager children, the quiet satisfaction of a freshly-mowed lawn. It's about the spirit of Lilly, a community that thrives on connection and resilience. And it's about how we can strengthen that spirit by focusing on community health and proactively addressing the factors that influence lung cancer risk.

We're going to unpack the "Lung Cancer Score" – not a rigid metric, but a holistic understanding of the community's strengths and vulnerabilities. We'll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the local wellness programs, and the opportunities for outdoor recreation that contribute to the overall health of Lilly.

**Demographics: The Fabric of Lilly**

Lilly, with a population hovering around 900, is a tight-knit community. The median age leans towards the older side, a reflection of the historical roots of the area and the tendency for younger generations to seek opportunities elsewhere. This demographic reality presents both challenges and opportunities.

Imagine a porch swing, gently creaking under the weight of a lifelong resident, Mr. Petrovich. He’s seen the town evolve, witnessed the rise and fall of industries, and understands the deep-seated values of hard work and family that define Lilly. His generation, and the generations before, likely experienced significant exposure to coal dust and other environmental factors associated with the region's industrial past. This historical exposure, coupled with the natural aging process, necessitates a heightened awareness of lung health.

The town's racial makeup is predominantly white, and the economic landscape reflects a mix of blue-collar and service-based jobs. This economic reality can influence access to healthcare, healthy food options, and opportunities for preventative care. Ensuring equitable access to resources is crucial for bolstering community health.

**Places to Live: The Heart of Home**

Lilly offers a range of housing options, from charming, well-maintained older homes to more modern residences. The availability of affordable housing is a definite plus, providing stability for families and individuals.

Picture a sunny afternoon on Maple Street. Children are playing hopscotch on the sidewalk, the scent of freshly baked bread wafts from a nearby kitchen, and the sound of laughter echoes through the air. This is the essence of Lilly – a place where neighbors know each other, where community bonds are strong, and where a sense of belonging prevails.

However, the age of some of the housing stock presents a potential concern. Older homes may contain materials like asbestos or radon, which can increase the risk of lung cancer. Educating residents about these risks and providing resources for mitigation is a vital component of the community health strategy.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Lilly is undeniably friendly and supportive. It's a place where people look out for each other, where volunteerism thrives, and where community events are eagerly anticipated.

Think of the annual Lilly Days festival, a vibrant celebration of the town's heritage. The aroma of funnel cakes mingles with the sounds of live music and the laughter of children. This event, and others like it, fosters a sense of unity and provides opportunities for social interaction, which are crucial for mental and emotional well-being.

This strong sense of community is a powerful asset in promoting healthy lifestyles. Neighbors can encourage each other to adopt healthier habits, share information about local resources, and support each other through challenges.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Lilly: A Path to Wellness**

The good news is that Lilly offers opportunities to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Imagine yourself hiking the trails of nearby Prince Gallitzin State Park, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. The park offers a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. These outdoor pursuits are not only enjoyable but also contribute to physical fitness and reduce stress, both of which are beneficial for overall health.

The availability of fresh produce and healthy food options is an area where Lilly can continue to improve. While the town has local grocery stores, access to a wider variety of fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables could be enhanced. Supporting local farmers markets and promoting community gardens can help address this need.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

Lilly has the potential to expand its local wellness programs to further support community health.

Picture the local community center hosting a free yoga class, designed to reduce stress and improve lung capacity. Or imagine a partnership between the local pharmacy and the school to provide smoking cessation programs for adults and educational workshops for children.

Collaboration is key. Partnerships between local healthcare providers, community organizations, and the borough government can create a robust network of support for residents. This could include:

* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Providing accessible and affordable smoking cessation programs is crucial, given the well-documented link between smoking and lung cancer.
* **Lung Cancer Screening Awareness:** Educating residents about the importance of lung cancer screening, particularly for those at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers), can save lives.
* **Healthy Eating Initiatives:** Promoting access to healthy food options through farmers markets, community gardens, and educational programs.
* **Physical Activity Programs:** Encouraging physical activity through organized walks, fitness classes, and promoting the use of local parks and trails.
* **Radon Testing and Mitigation:** Providing information and resources about radon testing and mitigation in homes.
* **Air Quality Monitoring:** Partnering with local environmental agencies to monitor air quality and address any potential pollution concerns.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Dynamic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a static number; it's a dynamic assessment of the community's strengths and vulnerabilities. It's a tool to guide action, to identify areas where improvement is needed, and to celebrate the successes.

In the context of 15938, the Lung Cancer Score would consider factors like:

* **Smoking Prevalence:** The percentage of adults who smoke.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and health insurance.
* **Air Quality:** The level of air pollution in the area.
* **Radon Levels:** The prevalence of radon in homes.
* **Access to Healthy Foods:** The availability of fresh produce and healthy food options.
* **Participation in Wellness Programs:** The number of residents participating in local wellness initiatives.
* **Early Detection Rates:** The rate of lung cancer screenings and early detection.

By regularly assessing these factors, the community can track its progress, identify areas for improvement, and tailor its health initiatives to meet the specific needs of its residents.

**Breathing Easier: A Collective Effort**

Building a healthier future in Lilly is a collective effort. It requires the commitment of individuals, families, community leaders, healthcare providers, and local organizations.

It's about empowering residents with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health. It's about creating a supportive environment that encourages healthy behaviors. It's about fostering a sense of community that strengthens the bonds between neighbors and promotes a shared commitment to well-being.

Imagine a future where Lilly is known not only for its friendly atmosphere and scenic beauty, but also for its thriving community health. A future where residents are empowered to take control of their health, where lung cancer is detected early and treated effectively, and where everyone can breathe easier, knowing they are part of a community that cares.

The journey towards a healthier Lilly begins now. Let's work together to create a community where everyone can thrive, where the air is clean, and where the future is filled with the promise of healthy, happy lives.