17352, New Park, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17352, New Park, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.11 percent of the residents in 17352 has some form of health insurance. 30.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17352 would have to travel an average of 17.30 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wellspan York Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,693 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17352, New Park, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of New Park: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score in 17352

The air hangs crisp and clean over New Park, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17352). Rolling hills, dotted with farms and punctuated by the occasional stately farmhouse, define the landscape. It's a place where the rhythm of life seems to slow, where neighbors wave from their porches, and the scent of freshly mown hay mingles with the sweet perfume of blooming wildflowers. But beneath this idyllic surface, a silent adversary lurks: the potential for lung cancer. While the disease doesn't discriminate, its impact is often amplified by factors woven into the fabric of a community. This article delves into the 'Lung Cancer Score' – not a formal metric, but a composite understanding of the community health landscape in 17352 – examining the factors that influence risk, and highlighting the opportunities for a healthier future.

**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

To understand the 'Lung Cancer Score,' we must first understand the community. New Park, a small borough nestled in southern York County, boasts a population of roughly 500 residents. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American, and a very small representation of other ethnicities. The median age skews slightly older than the national average, reflecting a community that has seen generations grow up within its borders.

The economic landscape is largely blue-collar, with many residents employed in agriculture, manufacturing, and related industries. This can translate to a higher prevalence of certain risk factors. For example, exposure to occupational hazards like asbestos or silica, though less common now than in the past, could still be a factor for some residents.

The housing stock is diverse, ranging from historic homes that have stood for centuries to newer developments that have sprung up to accommodate the growing population of the surrounding townships. The quality of housing is generally good, with well-maintained properties that reflect a sense of pride in the community. However, the age of some homes may present challenges, such as the potential for radon exposure, a known carcinogen.

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

The true character of New Park is found in its neighborly spirit. The local fire company, a cornerstone of the community, hosts events that bring people together, from pancake breakfasts to holiday parades. The annual New Park Community Day is a testament to this unity, a celebration of local crafts, food, and music that draws residents from miles around.

However, this close-knit atmosphere can also present challenges. The tendency to rely on established routines and traditions can sometimes make it difficult to embrace new ideas or initiatives, including those related to health and wellness. Furthermore, the relative isolation of a rural community can limit access to specialized medical care and preventative services.

**Places to Live: Where the Air Meets the Soul**

Choosing where to live is a deeply personal decision, and in New Park, it's often dictated by a desire for tranquility and a connection to nature. The options are varied:

* **The Historic Heart:** Century-old homes line the main street, radiating a sense of history and permanence. These properties often come with large yards, perfect for gardening and outdoor activities. However, older homes may require more maintenance and potentially have hidden hazards like lead paint or asbestos.
* **The Rural Retreats:** Scattered throughout the surrounding countryside are farmhouses and cottages, offering privacy and a connection to the land. These properties often have ample space for growing food, raising animals, and enjoying the fresh air. However, they may be further from essential services like grocery stores and medical facilities.
* **The Suburban Enclaves:** Newer developments offer modern amenities and a sense of community, with well-maintained lawns and shared spaces. These properties are often more accessible and may have fewer maintenance demands. However, they may lack the character and charm of older homes and could be located further from the natural beauty that defines New Park.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep and Finding Balance**

One of the greatest assets of New Park is its access to outdoor recreation. The surrounding countryside offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with nature and promote a healthy lifestyle.

* **Hiking and Biking:** Miles of scenic trails wind through the rolling hills and forests, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area. The Mason-Dixon Trail, a long-distance hiking trail, passes nearby, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
* **Fishing and Hunting:** The nearby streams and forests are popular destinations for fishing and hunting, providing opportunities for recreation and a connection to the local ecosystem.
* **Parks and Playgrounds:** The borough has a small park with a playground, offering a space for children to play and families to gather.

However, the lack of dedicated fitness facilities within the borough presents a challenge. Residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for access to gyms, swimming pools, or other recreational amenities.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While New Park may not have a plethora of formal wellness programs, there are subtle signs of a growing awareness of the importance of health.

* **Community Gardens:** The growing popularity of community gardens in the surrounding areas suggests an increasing interest in healthy eating and access to fresh produce.
* **Farmers' Markets:** While not directly in New Park, nearby farmers' markets offer residents access to locally grown fruits and vegetables, promoting a healthy diet.
* **Informal Support Networks:** Neighbors often look out for each other, sharing information about health resources and providing support to those in need.

The key to improving the 'Lung Cancer Score' lies in fostering these existing initiatives and building upon them.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Unpacking the Risk Factors**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a simple number; it's a complex assessment of the factors that influence the risk of developing lung cancer in 17352. Several key elements contribute to this score:

* **Smoking Prevalence:** Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While data on smoking rates in New Park specifically is not readily available, it's reasonable to assume that smoking rates are similar to the national average, which means that a significant portion of the population is at risk.
* **Radon Exposure:** Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a significant risk factor for lung cancer. Given the age of some homes in New Park and the potential for radon accumulation in basements, radon testing and mitigation are crucial.
* **Environmental Exposures:** While New Park is largely rural, residents may be exposed to environmental hazards such as agricultural chemicals or pollutants from nearby industrial areas.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Limited access to healthcare, including regular checkups and lung cancer screenings, can lead to late-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes. The distance to specialized medical facilities could be a barrier for some residents.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Lower socioeconomic status is often associated with higher rates of lung cancer due to factors such as limited access to healthcare, poor nutrition, and increased exposure to environmental hazards.
* **Awareness and Education:** The level of awareness about lung cancer risk factors and the importance of early detection is crucial. A lack of knowledge can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

**Raising the Score: A Path to a Healthier Future**

Improving the 'Lung Cancer Score' in 17352 requires a multi-faceted approach:

* **Promoting Smoking Cessation:** Supporting smoking cessation programs and initiatives is paramount. This could involve partnering with local healthcare providers to offer smoking cessation classes, providing access to nicotine replacement therapy, and raising awareness about the dangers of smoking.
* **Radon Awareness and Mitigation:** Encouraging radon testing in all homes and providing resources for radon mitigation is essential. The local government could offer incentives for homeowners to test and remediate their homes.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Facilitating access to affordable healthcare, including regular checkups and lung cancer screenings, is critical. This could involve partnering with local healthcare providers to offer mobile screening clinics or providing transportation assistance to those who need it.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and a smoke-free environment is crucial. This could involve supporting community gardens, promoting farmers' markets, and creating more opportunities for outdoor recreation.
* **Raising Awareness and Education:** Educating residents about lung cancer risk factors, the importance of early detection, and the available resources is essential. This could involve organizing community health fairs, distributing educational materials, and partnering with local schools to teach children about healthy lifestyles.
* **Fostering Community Engagement:** Encouraging community involvement in health initiatives is vital. This could involve forming a community health advisory board, recruiting volunteers to support health programs, and promoting a culture of health and wellness throughout the borough.

**The Final Breath: A Call to Action**

New Park, with its close-knit community and stunning natural beauty, has the potential to be a beacon of health and wellness. By addressing the factors that influence the 'Lung Cancer Score,' the community can take proactive steps to protect its residents and create a healthier future for generations to come. This requires a collective effort – from individuals making healthy choices to local leaders implementing supportive policies. The breath of New Park is a gift, and it's a gift worth protecting. By working together, the residents of 17352 can ensure that the air they breathe is clean, healthy, and life-giving.