37857, Rogersville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score People Score

The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37857, Rogersville, Tennessee is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 37857 has some form of health insurance. 49.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.98 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 37857 would have to travel an average of 0.37 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Hawkins County Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 629 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 37857, Rogersville, Tennessee.

## Lung Cancer Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Rogersville, TN (ZIP Code 37857)

The air hangs heavy in Rogersville, Tennessee, a town nestled in the rolling hills of Hawkins County. It’s a place where history whispers from weathered brick buildings lining the square, where the Holston River snakes its way through the landscape, and where the scent of woodsmoke often mingles with the crisp mountain air. But beneath the picturesque surface, a silent adversary lurks: lung cancer. And understanding the risks, the resources, and the realities within ZIP Code 37857 is crucial to building a healthier community. This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lives breathed, the breaths taken, and the future envisioned for Rogersville.

We're not just talking numbers here. We're talking about Mrs. Gable, whose porch swing creaks with the rhythm of decades, and whose laughter, once as bright as the summer sun, is now punctuated by a persistent cough. We're thinking about young David, who dreams of hiking the trails of Bays Mountain Park, but whose father, a lifelong smoker, struggles to catch his breath after a short walk. We're considering the fabric of this community, woven with threads of resilience, tradition, and the shared desire for a long, healthy life.

This “Lung Cancer Score” isn't a definitive grade. It’s a deep dive, a snapshot of the factors that contribute to lung cancer risk and the resources available to mitigate them, all viewed through the lens of Rogersville's unique character.

**Demographics: The Faces of Rogersville**

To understand the lung cancer landscape, we must first understand the people. ZIP Code 37857 encompasses a diverse population, a tapestry woven with threads of Appalachian heritage, modern aspirations, and the enduring spirit of the South. The median age hovers around 45, reflecting a community with a strong core of established residents. The population is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic population, a testament to the evolving face of rural America.

The socioeconomic profile is a crucial factor. The median household income is lower than the national average, and a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. This economic reality has a direct impact on health outcomes. Limited access to quality healthcare, coupled with the stress of financial insecurity, can exacerbate risk factors like smoking and poor diet.

Think of the families struggling to make ends meet, where the cost of a pack of cigarettes might seem less daunting than the price of a doctor's visit. Imagine the single mother working two jobs, with little time or resources to prioritize her own health. These are the real-life scenarios that shape the lung cancer risk profile in Rogersville.

**Places to Live: Where We Call Home**

The housing landscape in 37857 is as varied as its residents. From historic homes lining the town square to modest ranch houses dotting the countryside, the choices reflect the community's diverse economic realities.

The age of the housing stock is a significant consideration. Older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen. Exposure to asbestos, even at low levels, can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer, especially for those who smoke.

Furthermore, the presence of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a concern in many areas of Tennessee. Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer, and testing homes for its presence is crucial. Imagine the family in their newly purchased fixer-upper, unaware of the silent threat seeping from the ground beneath their feet.

The availability of affordable, safe, and healthy housing is paramount. The condition of the homes, the presence of environmental hazards, and the ability of residents to afford necessary repairs all contribute to the overall health of the community.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Culture, Community, and Connection**

Rogersville’s charm lies in its close-knit community. The town square, with its historic courthouse and local businesses, is the heart of the community. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from the local cafe mingles with the chatter of neighbors catching up on the day's events.

The social fabric of Rogersville, however, can also present challenges. The prevalence of smoking, often deeply ingrained in the culture, is a significant risk factor. The easy availability of tobacco products, coupled with social acceptance, can make quitting a daunting task.

The sense of community, however, also presents opportunities. Local churches, civic organizations, and community centers can play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles. Imagine a church offering smoking cessation classes, or a community center hosting free health screenings. These are the threads of support that can strengthen the community's defenses against lung cancer.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Rogersville: Breathing Easier?**

The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in Rogersville is a journey, not a destination. The access to resources, the availability of healthy food options, and the opportunities for physical activity all play a role in shaping the community's health.

The presence of local grocery stores, farmers' markets, and community gardens can provide access to fresh, healthy food. Imagine the vibrant colors and smells of a farmers' market, offering locally grown produce and a sense of community. The ability to access and afford healthy food is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.

Outdoor recreation is another crucial factor. The proximity to the Holston River, the trails of Bays Mountain Park, and the surrounding hills offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and other forms of physical activity. These activities can help reduce the risk of lung cancer by promoting overall health and well-being. Picture the families enjoying a hike on a crisp autumn day, breathing in the fresh mountain air.

However, access to these resources is not always equal. Transportation limitations, economic constraints, and the availability of recreational facilities can all pose barriers to healthy living.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Fight on the Ground**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical indicator of a community's commitment to health. These programs can range from smoking cessation classes to health screenings to educational initiatives.

The Hawkins County Health Department is a key player in this effort. They offer a variety of programs, including those focused on smoking cessation, disease prevention, and health education. Imagine a health department representative visiting a local business, offering free lung cancer screenings and information about quitting smoking.

Local hospitals and clinics also play a crucial role. They can provide access to early detection services, such as low-dose CT scans, which can significantly improve the chances of survival for those diagnosed with lung cancer.

The success of these programs depends on community engagement, accessibility, and affordability. The more people who participate, the greater the impact on the overall health of the community.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Breath of Fresh Air (or a Call to Action?)**

So, where does Rogersville stand in this "Lung Cancer Score"? The answer is complex. The community faces challenges, including a lower socioeconomic status, the prevalence of smoking, and the potential for environmental hazards. However, the community also possesses strengths: a strong sense of community, access to outdoor recreation, and the presence of local wellness programs.

The "score" isn't a number; it's a narrative. It's a story of a community grappling with a serious health threat, while simultaneously striving to build a healthier future.

**What needs to be done?**

* **Increase Access to Healthcare:** Expand access to affordable healthcare, including preventative screenings and early detection services.
* **Promote Smoking Cessation:** Implement comprehensive smoking cessation programs, tailored to the needs of the community, including support groups, counseling, and access to nicotine replacement therapy.
* **Educate and Raise Awareness:** Launch public awareness campaigns about the risks of lung cancer, the importance of early detection, and the resources available to help people quit smoking.
* **Address Environmental Hazards:** Encourage home testing for radon and asbestos, and provide resources for mitigation.
* **Support Healthy Lifestyles:** Promote healthy eating habits, encourage physical activity, and create opportunities for outdoor recreation.
* **Strengthen Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and government agencies to address the root causes of lung cancer and improve the overall health of the community.

The future of Rogersville, and the health of its residents, depends on the collective effort of the community. It's about taking a deep breath, acknowledging the challenges, and working together to create a healthier, more vibrant future for generations to come. It's about ensuring that Mrs. Gable can continue to enjoy her porch swing, that David can hike the trails, and that the air in Rogersville, TN (37857) is filled with the promise of a long, healthy life. The fight against lung cancer is not just a medical battle; it's a community endeavor, a shared responsibility, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Rogersville.