17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.33 percent of the residents in 17044 has some form of health insurance. 44.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.16 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17044 would have to travel an average of 1.81 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,002 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of Lewistown: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score in 17044

The air hangs heavy sometimes in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Not just with the humidity that clings to the Juniata River, but with the weight of history, industry, and the everyday struggles of a working-class town. In the context of community health, and specifically the shadow of lung cancer, understanding the landscape of 17044 – Lewistown's central ZIP code – is more than just crunching numbers. It's about breathing in the reality, the grit, the resilience, and the potential for a healthier future.

This isn't a clinical report. This is a deep dive, a journey into the heart of Lewistown, examining the factors that contribute to a "Lung Cancer Score" – not a formal metric, but a composite understanding of risk factors, community resources, and the lived experience of residents. We're not just looking at statistics; we're looking at lives.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Echoes of Industry**

Imagine the sun setting over the rolling hills, casting long shadows across the brick facades of downtown. The Juniata River snakes its way through the valley, a lifeblood and a silent witness. Lewistown, the county seat of Mifflin County, is a town of roughly 6,500 residents within the 17044 ZIP code. The population skews older, reflecting a trend common in rural Pennsylvania. A significant portion of the community identifies as white, with a smaller but growing Hispanic/Latino population.

The echoes of industry are everywhere. The legacy of manufacturing, once the backbone of the town, is etched into the landscape. Factories, now silent or repurposed, stand as reminders of a time when jobs were plentiful, but the air, and perhaps the lungs, paid a price. The potential for historical exposure to asbestos and other harmful substances is a significant factor to consider when assessing the risk profile for lung cancer.

Think of Mrs. Petrocelli, her hands gnarled from years of working in a textile mill. She remembers the dust, the constant hum of machinery, and the feeling of something always clinging to her clothes. Now, in her late seventies, she worries about the persistent cough that won't go away. Her story, and countless others like it, underscores the enduring impact of past environmental exposures on the health of the community.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Homes and Habits**

The "neighborhood vibe" in 17044 is a complex mix. There's a strong sense of community, a deep-rooted connection to the land and to each other. Front porches are often the social hubs, where neighbors gather to chat, share stories, and watch the world go by.

Housing ranges from charming Victorian homes lining the tree-lined streets to more modest, single-family dwellings. The affordability of housing is a double-edged sword. While it allows people to stay rooted in their community, it can also contribute to issues like substandard housing conditions, which can exacerbate respiratory problems.

Consider the young family, the Millers, who recently purchased their first home on a quiet street. They’re excited about the potential, but the house needs work. The lingering smell of mold in the basement, a common issue in older homes, is a constant worry, especially for their asthmatic child.

The habits of the community are also crucial. Smoking rates, unfortunately, can be higher in areas with a history of industrial jobs and economic hardship. The prevalence of smoking, combined with other factors, significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. The local convenience stores, with their displays of cigarettes, are a constant reminder of this challenge.

**Places to Live: Mapping the Health Landscape**

Where people live directly impacts their health. In 17044, this means considering the proximity to potential environmental hazards, access to healthy food, and the availability of green spaces.

Imagine the residents living near the former industrial sites. The potential for soil contamination, the lingering presence of pollutants in the air, and the anxieties that come with knowing your home sits on land with a history of industrial activity can all contribute to a higher risk profile.

Contrast this with the residents who live closer to the Kishacoquillas Creek, enjoying the relative tranquility and access to outdoor recreation. The presence of parks and green spaces, like the Rec Park, is a vital asset. These spaces offer opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and a connection to nature, all of which contribute to improved respiratory health.

The availability of healthy food options is another critical factor. While the local grocery stores offer a variety of choices, access to fresh produce can be limited, especially for those without reliable transportation. The presence of farmers markets, like the one held seasonally, is a positive sign, but more needs to be done to ensure that healthy food is accessible to all residents.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Lewistown: The Seeds of Change**

Despite the challenges, the seeds of change are taking root in Lewistown. The community is not defined by its struggles; it's defined by its resilience and its commitment to a better future.

The local YMCA, a cornerstone of the community, offers a range of programs, from fitness classes to youth sports leagues. These programs provide opportunities for physical activity and social connection, vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Consider the senior citizens who gather at the Lewistown Senior Center. They participate in exercise classes, enjoy nutritious meals, and receive support from their peers. These programs are not just about physical health; they're about combating social isolation and promoting overall well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Network of Support**

The availability of local wellness programs is a crucial factor in shaping the "Lung Cancer Score." These programs provide vital support for those at risk and those who have been diagnosed with the disease.

The local hospital, Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, offers a range of services, including smoking cessation programs, lung cancer screenings, and support groups. These resources are essential for early detection and treatment.

Imagine the support group for lung cancer survivors. They share their stories, offer encouragement, and provide a sense of community. This network of support is invaluable in navigating the challenges of the disease.

The Mifflin County Health Department plays a critical role in providing public health services, including education and outreach programs. They work to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, promote healthy lifestyles, and connect residents with the resources they need.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easier in the Juniata Valley**

The Juniata Valley offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The river itself is a playground for kayakers, canoeists, and anglers. The surrounding hills provide hiking trails and scenic vistas.

Imagine the joy of a morning hike on the trails, the crisp air filling your lungs. The physical activity, the connection to nature, and the sense of peace can all contribute to improved respiratory health.

The local parks, like Rec Park, provide spaces for families to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors. These spaces are essential for promoting physical activity and reducing stress.

**The Path Forward: A Collective Breath**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 17044 is not a fixed number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health, influenced by a complex interplay of factors.

Addressing the challenges requires a multifaceted approach. This includes:

* **Investing in Environmental Remediation:** Cleaning up former industrial sites and mitigating environmental hazards.
* **Promoting Smoking Cessation:** Expanding access to smoking cessation programs and resources.
* **Improving Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality healthcare, including lung cancer screenings.
* **Supporting Local Wellness Programs:** Strengthening existing programs and developing new initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Enhancing Outdoor Recreation:** Preserving and expanding access to green spaces and recreational opportunities.
* **Addressing Social Determinants of Health:** Tackling issues like poverty, housing instability, and food insecurity, which can exacerbate health disparities.
* **Community Education and Awareness:** Raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors and promoting early detection.

The story of Lewistown is a story of resilience. The people of 17044 are not passive recipients of their circumstances. They are actively working to create a healthier future for themselves and their children.

The breath of Lewistown is a collective breath. It's the breath of the factory worker, the farmer, the teacher, the child playing in the park. It's a breath that carries the weight of the past, the hope of the present, and the promise of a healthier tomorrow. By understanding the factors that influence the "Lung Cancer Score" and working together, the community can breathe easier, stronger, and longer.