16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.53 percent of the residents in 16140 has some form of health insurance. 21.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 94.55 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 16140 would have to travel an average of 9.45 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Sharon Regional Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,247 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in 16140: A Lung Cancer Score for New Bedford, PA

The air hangs thick and heavy in the summer, a humid embrace that settles over the rolling hills and quiet streets of New Bedford, Pennsylvania. This isn't the crisp, invigorating air of a mountain vista; it's the air of a working-class town, a place where the echoes of industry still linger, woven into the fabric of daily life. But within the boundaries of ZIP code 16140, a community story unfolds, a story of resilience, of striving for a healthier future, and of the ever-present shadow of lung cancer, a disease that touches too many lives. This is our Lung Cancer Score assessment, a deep dive into the community health landscape of New Bedford, a place where understanding the nuances of life is crucial to building a healthier tomorrow.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

Let's begin with the people. 16140 isn't a sprawling metropolis; it's a tight-knit community, a place where generations often live within a stone's throw of each other. The demographic makeup paints a picture of both strength and vulnerability. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a population that has weathered the storms of economic shifts and societal changes. This aging population, coupled with a significant percentage of residents who have lived here for decades, means a deeper understanding of long-term health risks is paramount.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, watching the kids play kickball on the street. She remembers the days when the air was thick with the smell of coal smoke, a constant reminder of the industry that powered the town. She’s a survivor, a testament to the grit of New Bedford, but also a poignant symbol of the potential long-term health impacts of those bygone eras.

The economic landscape of 16140 is another key factor. While not necessarily impoverished, the median household income is likely lower than the national average. This can translate to limited access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and preventative care, all of which are critical in the fight against lung cancer. The stress of financial insecurity can also contribute to unhealthy habits, such as smoking, which further elevates the risk.

Consider Mr. Ramirez, a hardworking man who spends his days at the local manufacturing plant. He's the breadwinner, the provider, but the pressures of his job, coupled with the lack of readily available resources for quitting smoking, leave him vulnerable. His story, sadly, is not unique.

**Places to Live: A Snapshot of the Neighborhood**

The physical environment of 16140 plays a crucial role in community health. The housing stock is a mix of well-maintained older homes, some with a touch of faded elegance, and more modern developments. The presence of lead paint and asbestos in older homes is a potential concern, particularly for children and those undertaking renovations. The quality of housing, the presence of environmental hazards, and the proximity to potential sources of pollution all contribute to the overall health picture.

Picture the quiet streets of the Elmwood neighborhood, lined with mature trees that offer a welcome canopy in the summer. The air feels a little cleaner here, the houses well-kept, and the sense of community strong. Contrast this with the industrial areas, where the hum of machinery and the potential for air pollution are ever-present.

The availability of green spaces is another critical factor. Parks and recreational areas offer opportunities for exercise, stress reduction, and a connection with nature, all of which contribute to a healthy lifestyle. However, if these spaces are limited or poorly maintained, the community loses out on these vital benefits.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Pulse of Community**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is more than just a feeling; it's a reflection of the social fabric, the level of social cohesion, and the sense of belonging. A strong community, where neighbors look out for each other and support one another, can be a powerful buffer against the negative impacts of stress and isolation.

Imagine the annual block party on Maple Street, a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Neighbors gather, sharing food, laughter, and stories. This sense of connection, of shared experience, is a valuable asset in promoting mental and physical well-being.

However, if the community is fragmented, if there is a lack of trust and social interaction, the impact on health can be significant. Isolation, loneliness, and a lack of social support can contribute to unhealthy behaviors and increase the risk of chronic diseases, including lung cancer.

**Healthy Lifestyle in New Bedford: A Call to Action**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle in 16140 is not just about individual choices; it's about creating an environment that supports healthy behaviors. This means addressing the root causes of poor health, such as poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and environmental hazards.

One of the most significant risk factors for lung cancer is smoking. The prevalence of smoking in 16140 needs to be addressed through comprehensive tobacco control programs, including cessation support, educational campaigns, and policies that restrict smoking in public places.

Imagine the local community center hosting a free smoking cessation workshop, led by a compassionate counselor who understands the challenges of quitting. This is the kind of initiative that can make a real difference in the lives of residents.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for the Soul**

Access to outdoor recreation is crucial for physical and mental well-being. Parks, trails, and other recreational areas provide opportunities for exercise, stress reduction, and a connection with nature.

Picture the families enjoying a sunny afternoon at the local park, children laughing as they play on the swings, and adults taking a leisurely stroll along the walking path. These moments of joy and connection are essential for a healthy community.

However, if access to these resources is limited, if parks are poorly maintained or unsafe, the community loses out on these vital benefits. Investing in outdoor recreation is an investment in the health and well-being of the community.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs is a strong indicator of a community's commitment to health. These programs can range from free health screenings and educational workshops to support groups and exercise classes.

Imagine the local YMCA offering a free lung cancer screening clinic, providing early detection and access to treatment. This is the kind of proactive approach that can save lives.

The success of these programs depends on their accessibility, affordability, and cultural sensitivity. They need to be tailored to the specific needs of the community and delivered by trusted individuals.

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

Our Lung Cancer Score for 16140 is not a single number; it's a holistic assessment of the community's strengths and weaknesses. It takes into account the demographic makeup, the physical environment, the social fabric, and the availability of resources.

**Areas of Strength:**

* **Strong Community Spirit:** The sense of community in 16140 is a valuable asset.
* **Dedicated Residents:** The people of New Bedford are resilient and committed to their community.
* **Potential for Growth:** There is a growing awareness of the importance of community health.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** The need for comprehensive tobacco control programs is critical.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Improving access to quality healthcare, including preventative care, is essential.
* **Environmental Concerns:** Addressing environmental hazards, such as lead paint and asbestos, is a priority.
* **Economic Disparities:** Addressing economic disparities and providing opportunities for economic advancement is crucial.

**The Path Forward: A Collective Effort**

Improving community health in 16140 is a collective effort. It requires the collaboration of residents, community leaders, healthcare providers, and local organizations.

Imagine a coalition of stakeholders working together to create a healthier future for New Bedford. They are implementing a comprehensive tobacco control program, expanding access to healthcare, and investing in outdoor recreation. They are working to address environmental hazards and promote economic opportunities.

This is the vision for 16140: a community where everyone has the opportunity to breathe easy, where the air is clean, and where the shadow of lung cancer is pushed back by the light of hope and a shared commitment to a healthier tomorrow. The journey won't be easy, but the people of New Bedford are resilient, and they are ready to fight for their future. They are ready to breathe easy.