17406, York, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17406, York, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.61 percent of the residents in 17406 has some form of health insurance. 31.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17406 would have to travel an average of 5.15 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wellspan York Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,746 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17406, York, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in 17406: A Lung Cancer Score for York, Pennsylvania

The air hangs thick and humid over York, Pennsylvania, a familiar embrace for those who call ZIP code 17406 home. It's a place where the scent of freshly baked bread from a local bakery mingles with the exhaust of passing trucks, a constant reminder of the industrial past and the vibrant present. But beyond the daily rhythms of life, beneath the surface of this community, lies a complex tapestry of factors that contribute to its overall health, and, specifically, its vulnerability to lung cancer. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lived experiences of the people who call 17406 their own. This is their Lung Cancer Score.

**The Scorecard: A Deep Dive into 17406**

We're not handing out a simple number here. Instead, we'll dissect the elements that shape the community's health, weaving a narrative that considers demographics, environmental factors, access to resources, and lifestyle choices. We’ll paint a picture, not just of risk, but of resilience, and the potential for a healthier future.

**Demographic Crossroads: A Snapshot of the People**

17406 is a mosaic, a blend of ethnicities, ages, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The heart of the zip code beats with a significant Hispanic/Latino population, a vibrant community whose traditions and culture enrich the area. This demographic, like any other, faces unique challenges and strengths. Understanding their specific needs is crucial.

Imagine Maria, a grandmother who has lived in 17406 for decades. She walks her grandchildren to school each morning, the rising sun painting the row houses in warm hues. She knows the streets, the neighbors, the subtle shifts in the seasons. She also knows the lingering scent of car exhaust that clings to the air, a constant reminder of the traffic that flows through the area. Her experience, and the experiences of countless others, is the raw material of our score.

The median household income in 17406 is, unfortunately, below the national average. This financial reality impacts access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing. The stress of economic hardship can also contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like smoking, which is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.

**Places to Live: Where the Walls Whisper**

Housing quality is a crucial piece of the puzzle. Older homes, common in 17406, can harbor hazards like lead paint and asbestos, both of which can contribute to respiratory problems and increase the risk of lung cancer. The presence of these hazards is often intertwined with socioeconomic status; those with fewer resources are often less able to afford safe, updated housing.

Consider the quiet streets lined with brick row houses, their facades weathered by time. Some are meticulously maintained, their gardens bursting with color. Others show signs of neglect, with peeling paint and overgrown yards. The quality of housing, the availability of green spaces, and the proximity to industrial areas all contribute to the environmental burden faced by residents.

**Environmental Whispers: The Air We Breathe**

York's industrial history casts a long shadow. While the city has worked to revitalize itself, the legacy of manufacturing lingers in the air and soil. Proximity to industrial sites, and the potential for air pollution from traffic and other sources, can elevate the risk of lung cancer.

Picture a late afternoon, the sun beginning to dip below the horizon. The air, already heavy with humidity, carries a faint metallic tang. This is the air that residents breathe, the air that carries the unseen particles that impact their health.

**Lifestyle Choices: The Paths We Take**

Smoking is, of course, a major culprit. The prevalence of smoking within a community significantly impacts its lung cancer risk. Understanding the factors that contribute to smoking rates – stress, peer pressure, lack of access to cessation resources – is vital.

But it's not just about smoking. Diet, exercise, and access to healthcare all play critical roles. The availability of fresh, affordable produce, the presence of safe spaces for exercise, and the ease of access to preventative healthcare services are all intertwined.

Imagine a group of friends gathering at a local park, their laughter echoing through the trees. Are they able to easily access healthy food options? Do they have the information and resources to make informed decisions about their health?

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope**

Fortunately, 17406 is not without its champions. Several local organizations are working to improve community health. These programs, often operating on limited budgets, are the seeds of hope, planting the potential for a healthier future.

Consider the community health center, a vital resource for many residents. They offer a range of services, from primary care to preventative screenings, often with a focus on reaching underserved populations. They are the frontline, the first point of contact for many who need medical attention.

Then there are the local YMCA and community centers, providing opportunities for exercise, recreation, and social connection. These spaces offer a sense of belonging and promote physical activity, counteracting the sedentary lifestyles that can contribute to health problems.

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

The spirit of a community is a powerful force. A strong sense of community, where neighbors support each other and work together for the common good, can buffer against the negative impacts of environmental and socioeconomic stressors.

Imagine a neighborhood block party, the air filled with the aroma of grilling food and the sound of children playing. This is the essence of community, a shared experience that fosters resilience and a sense of belonging.

However, if that sense of community is fractured by distrust, fear, or lack of access to resources, the community's ability to cope with challenges is diminished.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room**

Access to green spaces and opportunities for outdoor recreation is essential for physical and mental well-being. Parks, trails, and other outdoor spaces provide opportunities for exercise, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

Consider the local park, a green oasis in the heart of the zip code. Children play on the swings, families picnic under the trees, and individuals walk or jog along the paths. These spaces offer a respite from the stresses of daily life and promote a healthier lifestyle.

But if access to these spaces is limited, or if they are poorly maintained or unsafe, the benefits are diminished.

**The Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the Lung Cancer Score for 17406? It's not a single number. It's a complex assessment, a tapestry woven from the threads of demographics, environment, lifestyle, and access to resources.

It reveals a community facing significant challenges, but also one brimming with potential. The score highlights the need for:

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare, including preventative screenings and smoking cessation programs.
* **Improved Housing Quality:** Addressing the hazards of lead paint, asbestos, and other environmental toxins in older homes.
* **Environmental Remediation:** Continuing efforts to reduce air pollution and address the legacy of industrial contamination.
* **Community Empowerment:** Supporting local organizations that promote health and well-being, and fostering a strong sense of community.
* **Healthy Lifestyle Promotion:** Promoting healthy eating habits, encouraging physical activity, and providing resources for smoking cessation.

**The Future: A Breath of Fresh Air**

The Lung Cancer Score for 17406 is not a condemnation. It's a call to action. It's a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility. By understanding the challenges and celebrating the strengths, we can work together to create a healthier, more vibrant future for the residents of 17406.

Imagine Maria, walking her grandchildren to school, the air cleaner, the parks safer, the community stronger. This is the future we strive for, a future where everyone can breathe easy, a future where the Lung Cancer Score reflects not just risk, but resilience and hope. The work is ongoing, the challenges are real, but the potential for positive change is undeniable. The journey towards a healthier 17406 has begun.