17211, Artemas, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17211, Artemas, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.29 percent of the residents in 17211 has some form of health insurance. 43.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.37 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17211 would have to travel an average of 18.93 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Bedford Memorial. In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17211, Artemas, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Artemas (ZIP Code 17211) - A Community Health Snapshot

The air hangs thick and humid in Artemas, Pennsylvania, a July afternoon baking the asphalt of Main Street. The scent of freshly cut hay drifts from the fields that roll away from the town, a gentle reminder of the rural heart that beats within this small corner of Fulton County. But beyond the idyllic postcard, a deeper question lingers: How healthy are the lungs of Artemas? This article delves into the community health landscape of ZIP Code 17211, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, a holistic view of the factors that contribute to, or detract from, the respiratory well-being of its residents.

**The Score: A Multifaceted View**

We won't offer a single, numerical "score" in the traditional sense. Instead, we'll explore the interwoven threads that shape lung health in Artemas, considering demographics, lifestyle, access to resources, and the very essence of the community itself. This is about understanding the *potential* for lung cancer risk, and more importantly, the opportunities for prevention and improvement.

**Demographic Whispers: Who Calls Artemas Home?**

The demographic makeup of Artemas (ZIP Code 17211) is a crucial starting point. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial composition provides vital clues to potential health disparities.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a spry 78-year-old, tending her prize-winning petunias in her front yard. She's lived in Artemas her entire life, witnessing the ebb and flow of the community. The median age in 17211 is likely higher than the national average, reflecting a predominantly older population. This means a greater proportion of residents are at an increased risk for age-related health issues, including lung cancer.

The socioeconomic landscape is another key factor. Artemas is likely a community with a lower median household income compared to more urban areas. This can translate into challenges. Limited access to quality healthcare, including regular screenings and preventative care, becomes a significant hurdle. The cost of healthy food, the availability of reliable transportation to medical appointments, and the stresses of financial insecurity can all contribute to a less healthy lifestyle.

The racial composition of Artemas is likely overwhelmingly white. While this might seem straightforward, it's crucial to remember that health disparities can exist even within seemingly homogenous communities. Subtle differences in access to resources, cultural practices, and historical factors can still influence health outcomes.

**Places to Live: Where We Breathe**

The physical environment of Artemas plays a significant role in its residents' respiratory health. Where people live, work, and play directly impacts the air they breathe.

Consider the homes themselves. Older housing stock, common in rural areas, may contain environmental hazards like lead paint and asbestos, which can contribute to lung problems. The presence of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is another concern. Radon testing and mitigation are essential for protecting residents.

The proximity to agricultural activities is a double-edged sword. While the open fields offer a sense of freedom and connection to nature, they also bring potential exposure to agricultural chemicals, pesticides, and dust. The impact of these exposures on long-term respiratory health requires careful consideration.

The presence of any industrial facilities, even small ones, must be assessed. Are there potential sources of air pollution that could affect the local air quality?

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Social Fabric of Health**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial, often overlooked, element of community health. The social connections, the sense of belonging, and the level of community engagement all contribute to overall well-being.

Picture the weekly potluck at the Artemas Community Center. Neighbors gather, sharing food, stories, and laughter. This sense of community can be a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can negatively impact health.

Conversely, if Artemas suffers from a lack of social cohesion, with residents feeling isolated or disconnected, the potential for health problems increases. Lack of access to social support networks, feelings of loneliness, and limited opportunities for social interaction can all contribute to poor health outcomes.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Artemas: Choices and Challenges**

The choices residents make regarding their lifestyle have a direct impact on their lung health.

Let's imagine a young couple, Sarah and David, taking a brisk walk along the dirt road that winds through the countryside. The availability of safe and accessible spaces for physical activity is crucial. Are there parks, walking trails, or bike paths in Artemas? Or are residents primarily reliant on driving for transportation and recreation?

Smoking rates are another critical factor. Historically, rural communities have often had higher smoking rates than urban areas. The prevalence of smoking, both past and present, is a major contributor to lung cancer risk.

Diet and nutrition play a significant role. Access to fresh, healthy food is paramount. Does Artemas have a local farmers market? Are there grocery stores that offer affordable and nutritious options? Or are residents primarily reliant on convenience stores, which often offer less healthy choices?

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

The surrounding natural environment of Artemas offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can significantly benefit lung health.

Imagine hiking the trails of nearby Buchanan State Forest, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the beauty of the Pennsylvania landscape. Outdoor activities provide opportunities for physical exercise, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

The availability of these outdoor spaces, and the ease of access to them, is crucial. Are the trails well-maintained? Are they accessible to people of all abilities?

**Local Wellness Programs: Filling the Gaps**

The presence of local wellness programs and healthcare resources can make a significant difference in the community's health outcomes.

Does Artemas have a local health clinic? Are there programs focused on smoking cessation, healthy eating, or chronic disease management? Are there opportunities for lung cancer screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals?

The availability of these resources, and the community's awareness of them, is crucial. Are residents informed about the services available to them? Are these services accessible and affordable?

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

Based on this snapshot, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Artemas (ZIP Code 17211) is not a simple number. It's a complex tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle, environment, and community resources.

The potential for increased risk exists, particularly due to the aging population, the potential for socioeconomic challenges, and the historical prevalence of smoking. However, the rural setting, the potential for outdoor recreation, and the strong sense of community offer opportunities for positive change.

**Moving Forward: Breathing Easier in Artemas**

To improve the lung health of Artemas residents, a multi-pronged approach is needed:

* **Prioritize Preventative Care:** Increase access to lung cancer screenings, especially for high-risk individuals. Promote smoking cessation programs and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Address Environmental Concerns:** Conduct radon testing and mitigation in homes. Monitor air quality and address any potential sources of pollution.
* **Strengthen Community Connections:** Support community events and initiatives that foster social cohesion and reduce isolation.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Advocate for the availability of affordable healthy food options. Create and maintain safe spaces for physical activity.
* **Increase Healthcare Access:** Ensure residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare, including preventative care and chronic disease management.

The journey towards healthier lungs in Artemas is a continuous one. By understanding the complexities of community health, by identifying the challenges and opportunities, and by working together, the residents of Artemas can breathe easier, and live longer, healthier lives. The scent of hay and the beauty of the Pennsylvania landscape can be enjoyed by all, for generations to come.