17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.71 percent of the residents in 17935 has some form of health insurance. 50.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.03 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17935 would have to travel an average of 9.06 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,900 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania.

## The Girardville Breath: A Lung Cancer Score for 17935

The air in Girardville, Pennsylvania, hangs heavy with the scent of coal dust and the ghosts of industry. It’s a scent that has woven itself into the fabric of this small Schuylkill County town, a town carved from the rugged Appalachian landscape, a town where generations have lived and breathed the same air, the same stories. But today, we’re not just breathing the air; we’re taking its pulse. We’re looking at the health of the community, specifically through the lens of lung cancer, a disease often whispered in hushed tones, a shadow that can fall heavily on a town like Girardville. This isn't about fear; it's about understanding, about empowerment. It's about a "Lung Cancer Score" – not a definitive number, but a multifaceted assessment of the factors influencing the health of the residents of ZIP code 17935, a score designed to spark conversation and inspire action.

**The Scorecard: A Look at the Components**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a simple calculation. It's a tapestry woven from threads of demographics, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare. Each element contributes to the overall picture, painting a portrait of community health in Girardville.

**Demographics: The Roots of the Community**

Girardville is a town of roughly 1,400 souls, a number that has steadily dwindled over the decades. The median age skews older, a testament to the young leaving for opportunities elsewhere. This aging population, coupled with a history of industrial labor, creates a demographic landscape ripe for health challenges. The legacy of coal mining, the very foundation of Girardville's existence, casts a long shadow. Exposure to coal dust, silica, and other airborne pollutants over years of work can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses.

Imagine Mrs. Petrocelli, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch, watching the sun set over the hills. She remembers her husband, a miner, who died of black lung. The memory is etched on her face, a constant reminder of the price paid for the town's prosperity. This is the lived experience that shapes the community's health.

The town's economic realities also play a crucial role. Lower average incomes can translate to less access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and preventative screenings. This economic vulnerability can exacerbate existing health disparities. The story of Mr. Jones, a retired factory worker struggling to afford his medication, is a common one, a stark illustration of the challenges faced by many residents.

**Environmental Factors: Breathing the Past, Living the Present**

The environmental landscape of Girardville is a complex mix of beauty and challenge. The rolling hills, the dense forests, and the Schuylkill River offer a stunning natural backdrop. Yet, the legacy of coal mining lingers. Abandoned mine lands, remnants of a bygone era, can leach harmful substances into the soil and water. Air quality, while likely improved from the peak of industrial activity, still requires careful monitoring.

Think of the children playing in the park, their laughter echoing through the air. Are they breathing clean air? Are they exposed to potential hazards from the abandoned mine lands nearby? The answers to these questions are critical to understanding the community's health.

The proximity to major highways and the potential for industrial activity in surrounding areas also contribute to the environmental equation. Monitoring air quality, addressing abandoned mine lands, and promoting sustainable practices are essential steps in improving the environmental health of Girardville.

**Lifestyle Choices: Shaping the Future**

Lifestyle choices are powerful determinants of health. Smoking, a known risk factor for lung cancer, is a significant concern in many communities, and Girardville is likely no exception. The stresses of life, the economic hardships, and the social pressures can contribute to unhealthy habits.

Picture the local diner, a hub of community life. The aroma of coffee and the murmur of conversations fill the air. Are people lighting up at the tables? Are they supporting each other in quitting smoking? The answer to these questions is crucial.

Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes smoking cessation programs, promoting healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity. It also means addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to unhealthy behaviors.

**Access to Healthcare: The Lifeline**

Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, yet it can be a challenge in rural communities. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative screenings is crucial. Early detection is key to successful lung cancer treatment.

Imagine the local clinic, the first point of contact for many residents. Is it adequately staffed? Does it offer comprehensive screening programs? Does it provide support for those struggling with health issues?

Strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure is paramount. This includes recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding access to preventative screenings, and ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need to manage their health.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Girardville is not a passive participant in its own health. There are seeds of change being sown, efforts to improve the well-being of the community. Local wellness programs, community initiatives, and the dedication of individuals are all contributing to a healthier future.

Think of the local community center, a place where people gather for activities and support. Are there programs focused on health and wellness? Are there support groups for those affected by cancer or other health challenges?

Supporting and expanding these local initiatives is crucial. This includes providing funding, resources, and volunteer support. It also means fostering a culture of health and wellness within the community.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Spirit of Girardville**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a subtle but significant factor. The sense of community, the social connections, and the overall quality of life can influence health outcomes. A supportive and connected community can buffer against stress and promote well-being.

Picture the annual town festival, a celebration of community spirit. People laughing, sharing stories, and supporting each other. This is the essence of Girardville, the strength that binds the community together.

Fostering a strong sense of community is essential. This includes supporting local businesses, promoting social events, and encouraging volunteerism. It also means addressing issues that can undermine community cohesion, such as poverty and social isolation.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Fresh Air**

The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the outdoors can improve physical and mental health.

Imagine the trails winding through the hills, the fresh air filling your lungs. Are these trails accessible to all residents? Are there opportunities for organized outdoor activities?

Promoting outdoor recreation is essential. This includes developing and maintaining trails, organizing community events, and encouraging people to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of Community**

The quality of housing and the availability of safe and affordable living options are fundamental to community health. Well-maintained homes and a safe environment contribute to a sense of security and well-being.

Picture the homes of Girardville, each with its own story, its own history. Are these homes well-maintained? Are they affordable? Do they provide a safe and healthy environment?

Addressing housing issues is crucial. This includes providing resources for home repairs, promoting affordable housing options, and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and healthy living conditions.

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

So, what does the "Lung Cancer Score" for Girardville, 17935, look like? It's not a single number. It's a complex assessment, a snapshot of the community's health. It highlights the challenges – the legacy of industrial activity, the aging population, the economic hardships. It also recognizes the strengths – the strong community spirit, the natural beauty, the local wellness programs.

This score is a call to action. It's a call for the community to come together, to address the challenges, and to build a healthier future. It's a call for:

* **Increased awareness:** Educating residents about lung cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and early detection.
* **Improved access to healthcare:** Strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to preventative screenings, and ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need.
* **Support for healthy lifestyles:** Promoting smoking cessation programs, encouraging healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity.
* **Environmental remediation:** Addressing abandoned mine lands and monitoring air quality.
* **Community engagement:** Fostering a strong sense of community, supporting local wellness programs, and encouraging volunteerism.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about lung cancer. It's about the overall health and well-being of the community. It's about creating a place where people can live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. It's about breathing easier, about taking a deep breath of hope, and about building a brighter future for Girardville, Pennsylvania. The air may still carry the scent of coal dust, but it can also carry the scent of progress, the scent of a community working together to heal itself, one breath at a time.