18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.76 percent of the residents in 18845 has some form of health insurance. 59.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.41 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 18845 would have to travel an average of 21.73 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Robert Packer Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in 18845: A Lung Cancer Score for Stevensville, PA

The air hangs crisp and clean over Stevensville, Pennsylvania. You can almost taste the promise of the Endless Mountains, a tapestry of green and gold that rolls towards the horizon. This is a place where front porches still see afternoon sun, where the rhythm of life slows to the pace of the Susquehanna River. But beneath the idyllic surface, like a hidden current, flows the reality of community health. This isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about the well-being of the people who call 18845 home. And when we talk about well-being, we have to talk about lung cancer.

This article isn't a doom-and-gloom report. Instead, we're taking a proactive look at the health landscape of Stevensville, analyzing factors that contribute to lung cancer risk and, more importantly, highlighting the strengths of this community and the potential for a healthier future. We're building a "Lung Cancer Score" for 18845, not with numbers and statistics alone, but with a deep dive into the lived experiences of its residents.

**Understanding the Score: A Holistic Approach**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a single, definitive number. It's a multifaceted assessment, a mosaic pieced together from various elements. We'll consider:

* **Demographics:** Age, income, education levels, and racial makeup – these factors can influence access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, and overall health outcomes.
* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, proximity to industrial sites, and access to green spaces all play a role.
* **Lifestyle Choices:** Smoking rates, diet, exercise habits, and exposure to radon are critical.
* **Healthcare Access:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and screening programs is paramount.
* **Community Resources:** Local wellness programs, support groups, and initiatives that promote healthy living.

**The People of 18845: A Snapshot**

Stevensville, nestled in Bradford County, is a small, close-knit community. The 2020 Census data reveals a population that's predominantly white, with a median age that skews older than the national average. The income levels are moderate, reflecting a mix of blue-collar and service-oriented jobs. Education levels are generally good, with a solid percentage of residents holding high school diplomas or higher.

Picture this: a Saturday morning at the local farmer's market. The air is thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread and ripe tomatoes. Neighbors chat, exchanging greetings and sharing news. This sense of community, this interconnectedness, is a significant strength of Stevensville. It fosters social support, which is a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can indirectly impact health.

**The Environmental Landscape: Breathing Deep**

The beauty of the Endless Mountains is undeniable. The air here is generally clean, a stark contrast to the smog-choked cities. The lack of heavy industry in the immediate vicinity is a major plus. However, we can't ignore the presence of natural gas extraction in the surrounding areas. While the direct impact on air quality in Stevensville requires careful monitoring, the potential for increased truck traffic and related emissions is a concern.

Another crucial environmental factor is radon. This invisible, odorless gas is a known carcinogen, and Pennsylvania has a high prevalence of radon in homes. This is where awareness and proactive measures become critical.

**Vignette: The Radon Whisperer**

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a lifelong resident, a woman with eyes that have seen generations come and go. She's the kind of person who knows the history of every house in town. Recently, she had her basement tested for radon. The results came back higher than the EPA's recommended action level. Instead of panicking, she called a local contractor. The contractor, a young man named Ethan, not only installed a mitigation system but also patiently explained the process, answering her questions with genuine care. This is the kind of community spirit that defines Stevensville: neighbors helping neighbors, armed with knowledge and a willingness to act.

**Lifestyle Choices: The Foundation of Health**

Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer. While precise smoking rates for 18845 are difficult to pinpoint, we can infer from broader trends that smoking remains a concern. The availability of resources to help people quit smoking is vital.

Diet and exercise are also critical components of a healthy lifestyle. Access to fresh, affordable produce is a key factor. Fortunately, the local farmer's market and community gardens offer healthy options.

**Vignette: The Hiking Trail**

Picture a crisp autumn afternoon. The leaves are ablaze with color. A group of friends, ranging in age from their 30s to their 60s, are hiking the trails of nearby State Game Lands. The air is invigorating. Laughter echoes through the trees. They're not just exercising; they're connecting with nature, reducing stress, and building strong social bonds. This is the essence of a healthy lifestyle in Stevensville: a blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and camaraderie.

**Healthcare Access: The Lifeline**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. This includes having a primary care physician, access to specialists, and participation in regular screenings, such as lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals. The availability of these services in 18845 and the surrounding areas is a key factor in our score.

**Vignette: The Early Detection Advocate**

Meet Dr. Ramirez, a family physician at the local clinic. She's a passionate advocate for preventative care. She actively encourages her patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors, to consider lung cancer screenings. She explains the benefits, addresses their concerns, and makes sure they understand the process. This proactive approach, this commitment to early detection, can save lives.

**Community Resources: The Building Blocks**

Stevensville benefits from a range of community resources. Local wellness programs, support groups, and initiatives that promote healthy living are essential.

**Vignette: The Walking Club**

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, a group of residents gathers at the town square. They're members of the "Stevensville Striders," a walking club that welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels. They stroll through the town, chatting, laughing, and enjoying the fresh air. The club isn't just about exercise; it's about social connection, mutual support, and a shared commitment to well-being.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Soul of Stevensville**

The "neighborhood vibe" is difficult to quantify, but it's undeniably important. It's the feeling of safety, belonging, and connection that permeates a community. Stevensville possesses a strong neighborhood vibe. The sense of community, the willingness to help each other, the shared values – these are all protective factors that contribute to overall health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Nature's Prescription**

The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in the surrounding areas is a major asset. Hiking, biking, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the Endless Mountains provide a natural prescription for stress reduction, physical activity, and mental well-being.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on our preliminary assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 18845 is a mixed bag. The community has significant strengths: a strong sense of community, clean air, access to outdoor recreation, and dedicated healthcare professionals. However, challenges exist: potential radon exposure, the need for increased smoking cessation programs, and the importance of ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

**Recommendations for a Healthier Future**

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance the health of the community, several steps are recommended:

* **Radon Awareness and Mitigation:** Implement a comprehensive radon awareness campaign, encouraging residents to test their homes and providing financial assistance for mitigation.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Increase the availability and accessibility of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups.
* **Early Detection and Screening:** Promote lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals, ensuring that all residents have access to these vital services.
* **Healthy Lifestyle Initiatives:** Support and expand community gardens, farmer's markets, and walking clubs.
* **Air Quality Monitoring:** Advocate for continued monitoring of air quality, particularly in relation to natural gas extraction activities.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents to address health concerns and promote healthy behaviors.

**Breathing Easy: The Path Forward**

The journey to a healthier Stevensville is an ongoing process. It requires a collective effort, a commitment from residents, healthcare providers, community leaders, and local organizations. By addressing the challenges, building on the strengths, and fostering a culture of health and well-being, the community of 18845 can breathe easier, knowing that they are actively working towards a future where lung cancer is less prevalent and the quality of life is enhanced for all. The beauty of Stevensville is more than just a scenic backdrop; it's a call to action, a reminder that a healthy community is a vibrant community, a community that thrives.