17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of percent of the residents in 17072 has some form of health insurance. percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17072 would have to travel an average of 6.36 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 27,187 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of New Kingstown: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score in 17072

The air hums in New Kingstown, Pennsylvania. It's a quiet hum, a blend of rustling leaves from the mature trees lining the streets, the distant rumble of trucks on the nearby highways, and the almost imperceptible pulse of a community that’s constantly evolving. But beneath that surface tranquility, a crucial question lingers: how healthy are the lungs of New Kingstown? This isn't a medical diagnosis, but a deeper dive into the community health of ZIP code 17072, a look at the factors that contribute to – and detract from – the respiratory well-being of its residents. We’ll be using a "Lung Cancer Score" as a metaphor, a way to gauge the overall health of the community, considering everything from lifestyle choices to environmental factors, and ultimately, the potential for lung cancer risk.

**The Scorecard: More Than Just Numbers**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a scientific metric. It's a narrative, woven from data, observation, and the lived experiences of those who call 17072 home. We’ll assess various aspects of community health, each contributing to the overall score:

* **Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors:** The foundation. Who lives here? What are their resources?
* **Environmental Factors:** The air they breathe, the spaces they inhabit.
* **Lifestyle Choices:** Habits that impact lung health, from smoking to exercise.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of preventative care and treatment.
* **Community Resources & Support:** The strength of the social fabric.

**Demographics: A Portrait of 17072**

New Kingstown, nestled in Cumberland County, is a tapestry woven with threads of suburban comfort and rural charm. The population, hovering around 6,000, is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic/Latino presence adding vibrant hues to the community. Families are a cornerstone, evident in the well-maintained homes and the laughter echoing from the playgrounds of the local schools. Median household income is above the state average, suggesting a degree of economic stability that often translates to better access to resources. However, income disparities exist, and understanding these nuances is critical. A higher income doesn't automatically guarantee health; it's the *equitable* distribution of resources that truly matters.

**Vignette: The Corner Store and the Community**

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee spills out from the corner store on Lisburn Road, a hub for the community. Mrs. Rodriguez, a long-time resident, is chatting with Mr. Peterson, a retired teacher, about the upcoming town meeting. The store owner, Mr. Chen, is meticulously arranging a display of fresh produce, sourced from a local farm. This scene is a microcosm of 17072: a place where neighbors connect, where local businesses thrive, and where the threads of community are tightly woven. But the corner store also sells cigarettes. The presence of these products, a constant reminder of a potential health risk, subtly impacts our "Lung Cancer Score."

**Environmental Factors: Breathing Easy?**

The air quality in 17072 is generally good, thanks to its location away from major industrial centers. The rolling hills and abundant green spaces contribute to cleaner air. However, proximity to major highways, like the Pennsylvania Turnpike, introduces a constant stream of vehicle emissions. The impact of these emissions on respiratory health, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, needs careful consideration.

**Vignette: The Whispering Pines and the Highway's Hum**

The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the fields bordering the community park. Children are playing, their laughter mingling with the rustling of the pines. The air is crisp, clean, and invigorating. But in the distance, a constant hum – the sound of the highway – reminds us of the unseen pollutants that may be carried on the wind. Are these pollutants impacting the children's lungs, even in this seemingly idyllic setting?

**Lifestyle Choices: The Habits We Embrace**

The choices we make every day profoundly impact our health. Smoking is, of course, a major risk factor for lung cancer. While smoking rates are generally declining, it remains a concern, particularly among certain demographics. Diet, exercise, and stress levels also play a crucial role. A community that encourages healthy eating, provides opportunities for physical activity, and offers resources for managing stress is a community that's investing in its lung health.

**Vignette: The Soccer Field and the Smoke Break**

Saturday mornings at the local soccer field are a flurry of activity. Children chase the ball, their parents cheer from the sidelines, and the air is filled with the energy of competition. But on the edge of the field, a small group of adults huddle, taking a smoke break. The contrast is stark – the vibrant energy of the children juxtaposed with the quiet act of smoking, a reminder of the choices that shape our health.

**Access to Healthcare: The Path to Prevention**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. This includes not only access to doctors and specialists but also preventative care, like lung cancer screenings for those at high risk. The availability of health insurance, the presence of local clinics, and the ease of navigating the healthcare system all contribute to the community's ability to protect its residents' lungs.

**Vignette: The Doctor's Office and the Community Center**

The local doctor's office, a modern building with a welcoming atmosphere, is a vital resource for the community. Doctors and nurses are committed to preventative care, offering screenings and educational programs. Across town, the community center hosts free health workshops, offering information on smoking cessation, healthy eating, and stress management. These resources represent a commitment to proactive health, a crucial element in improving our "Lung Cancer Score."

**Community Resources & Support: The Strength in Numbers**

A strong community is a healthy community. Local wellness programs, support groups, and social networks can significantly impact lung health. These resources provide information, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, helping individuals make positive lifestyle changes and access the support they need.

**Vignette: The Walking Club and the Farmers Market**

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, a group of residents gathers for a brisk walk through the neighborhood. The walking club, a testament to community spirit, provides not only physical activity but also a sense of camaraderie. On Saturday mornings, the farmers market bursts with fresh produce, offering residents access to healthy food options. These community-driven initiatives are vital for promoting healthy lifestyles and bolstering our "Lung Cancer Score."

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

17072 boasts a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Parks, trails, and green spaces provide ample opportunities for physical activity and a connection with nature. These spaces are not just for exercise; they also offer a respite from the stresses of daily life, contributing to overall well-being.

**Vignette: The Creek and the Bike Path**

The Yellow Breeches Creek winds its way through the heart of 17072, offering a tranquil escape for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the beauty of the natural world. A network of bike paths weaves through the community, encouraging residents to embrace an active lifestyle. These outdoor spaces are a vital component of the community's health profile, offering opportunities to breathe in the fresh air and connect with nature.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" – A Holistic View**

So, what's the "Lung Cancer Score" for 17072? It's not a single number. It's a complex tapestry woven from the threads we've explored. The community benefits from its:

* **Generally good air quality.**
* **Relatively high median income.**
* **Strong sense of community and local initiatives.**
* **Access to outdoor recreation.**
* **Dedicated healthcare providers.**

However, challenges remain:

* **The impact of highway emissions.**
* **The presence of smoking.**
* **Income disparities that can affect access to resources.**
* **The need for continued investment in preventative care and community programs.**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17072 is therefore cautiously optimistic. The community has a solid foundation for good health, but continuous effort is needed to address the challenges and further improve the respiratory well-being of its residents. This means:

* **Advocating for policies that improve air quality.**
* **Supporting smoking cessation programs.**
* **Promoting healthy eating and exercise.**
* **Ensuring equitable access to healthcare and resources.**
* **Fostering a strong and supportive community.**

By focusing on these areas, New Kingstown can continue to build a community where the air is clean, the lungs are strong, and the future is bright. The hum of the community will continue, a symphony of life, health, and the promise of a breath taken deeply, freely, and without worry. The journey toward a healthier 17072 is ongoing, a collaborative effort that requires the participation of every resident, every business, and every organization. It's a journey worth taking, one breath at a time.