17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 17813 has some form of health insurance. 42.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.62 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17813 would have to travel an average of 33.23 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Geisinger Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 629 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy in Beavertown (ZIP Code 17813)

The air in Beavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17813), hums with a quiet energy. It’s a place where the sun dips behind the rolling hills, painting the sky in fiery hues, and the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the subtle sweetness of apple orchards. This isn't just a pretty postcard; it’s the backdrop to a community, a tapestry woven with threads of family, tradition, and a deep connection to the land. But beneath the surface, like the hidden veins that nourish the soil, lies the crucial question: How healthy are the lungs of Beavertown? This isn't just a matter of individual choices; it's a reflection of the community's health, a score we can assess to understand the risks and opportunities for a healthier future. This is the Beavertown Lung Cancer Score.

**Understanding the Score: A Holistic Approach**

We're not just looking at smoking rates, though those are undeniably important. We're examining the whole picture, the environment that breathes life into Beavertown. We’re considering the demographics, the access to healthcare, the availability of healthy food, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the overall neighborhood vibe. This holistic approach allows us to understand the factors that contribute to lung health, and, conversely, the potential risks of lung cancer.

**Demographic Snapshot: The Faces of Beavertown**

Beavertown, like many rural communities, boasts a strong sense of continuity. The population, hovering around a few thousand, is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of residents having lived in the area for generations. This stability creates a sense of belonging, a deep-rooted connection to the land and to each other. However, this demographic profile also presents certain challenges. The aging population, while rich in experience and community involvement, may face increased health risks. Understanding the specific needs of this demographic is crucial.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered by years of gardening, her eyes twinkling with the stories of Beavertown's past. She’s a pillar of the community, but she also represents the reality of an aging population. Ensuring access to preventative care, including regular lung cancer screenings, is paramount. Similarly, consider the young families, drawn to Beavertown's slower pace of life and the promise of open spaces. Their health, too, is intertwined with the community's well-being.

**Places to Live: Homes, Habitats, and Health**

The homes in Beavertown are as varied as the people who live in them. From meticulously maintained farmhouses with wraparound porches to more modern, single-family dwellings nestled amongst the trees, the housing stock reflects the community's diverse character. The quality of housing, however, can impact lung health. Mold, poor ventilation, and exposure to radon – a naturally occurring, odorless gas that can increase the risk of lung cancer – are all potential concerns.

Consider the cozy cottage on Main Street, its windows framed by vibrant flower boxes. Is it properly insulated? Is the air circulating freely? Or the sprawling ranch on the outskirts of town, with its expansive lawn and potential for pesticide exposure? These seemingly small details contribute to the overall health score.

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

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is a subtle yet powerful influence on health. In Beavertown, the vibe is one of quiet resilience, a sense of self-sufficiency, and a strong community spirit. This is a place where neighbors help neighbors, where volunteerism is a way of life, and where the local fire company is as much a social hub as it is a source of emergency response.

This strong community spirit is a significant asset. It fosters a sense of belonging, reduces social isolation, and encourages people to look out for each other. However, the rural nature of Beavertown also presents challenges. Access to healthcare can be limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles can impact air quality.

Picture the annual Beavertown Days festival, a vibrant celebration of local culture. The air is thick with the aroma of fried food, but also with the laughter of children and the camaraderie of neighbors. This is the heart of Beavertown, the place where community bonds are strengthened. But it’s also a reminder of the need to balance tradition with a commitment to health.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Health**

Beavertown's commitment to health is reflected in its local wellness programs. While the resources may not be as extensive as those in larger urban areas, the community is resourceful and resilient. The local YMCA, for instance, might offer exercise classes and health education programs. The local library could host workshops on healthy eating and smoking cessation. The school system might incorporate health and wellness initiatives into the curriculum.

Imagine the dedicated volunteers at the Beavertown Senior Center, organizing exercise classes and providing nutritious meals. Or the local doctor, tirelessly working to provide care to the community. These individuals and organizations are the unsung heroes, building a foundation for a healthier future.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

Beavertown is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. The surrounding hills, the meandering streams, and the vast open spaces offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, biking, fishing, and simply enjoying the fresh air are all integral parts of the Beavertown lifestyle.

Picture a crisp autumn morning, the leaves ablaze with color. A family is hiking the local trails, breathing in the invigorating air. Or a group of friends is casting their lines into the creek, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the natural world. These activities are not just enjoyable; they are essential for lung health and overall well-being.

**Specific Challenges and Opportunities in Beavertown (ZIP Code 17813)**

* **Smoking Rates:** Like many rural communities, Beavertown may face challenges related to smoking. Targeted smoking cessation programs, accessible and culturally sensitive, are crucial. Partnering with local healthcare providers and community organizations to offer these programs is vital.
* **Radon Mitigation:** Given the potential for radon exposure, educating residents about radon testing and mitigation is essential. Providing resources and financial assistance for radon remediation can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring access to quality healthcare, including regular lung cancer screenings, is a priority. Telemedicine, mobile health clinics, and partnerships with larger healthcare systems can help overcome geographical barriers.
* **Healthy Food Access:** Promoting access to healthy food options is crucial. Supporting local farmers markets, encouraging community gardens, and educating residents about healthy eating habits can improve overall health.
* **Air Quality:** While Beavertown enjoys relatively clean air, monitoring air quality and promoting sustainable practices, such as reducing vehicle emissions, can further protect lung health.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Work in Progress**

The Beavertown Lung Cancer Score is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment, a snapshot of the community's health at a particular moment in time. It's a call to action, a reminder that the health of the community is a shared responsibility. By understanding the challenges and leveraging the opportunities, Beavertown can strive for a healthier future, a future where the air is clear, the lungs are strong, and the community thrives.

Imagine the future: a Beavertown where lung cancer is less prevalent, where residents are empowered to make healthy choices, and where the community works together to create a healthier environment for all. This is the vision, the goal, the reason for the Beavertown Lung Cancer Score. It’s a journey, not a destination, and the first step is always awareness, followed by action. The score, in the end, is a reflection of the collective breath of Beavertown, a testament to the community's commitment to breathing easy.