Mapping disease incidence reveals geographic patterns

The relationship between health and place reveals that disease incidence reflects more than the simple presence or absence of a disease; it reflects genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors, cultural influences, socioeconomic conditions and the availability and quality of health care programs and services.

By highlighting geographic patterns in disease incidence and delivering a clearer understanding of the relationship between health and place, government bodies can access evidence-based information about where to direct health funding and investments to alleviate the impact of avoidable health issues.

To help alleviate the burden of chronic diseases using spatial epidemiological research, the University of Canberra Health Research Institute pioneered a global health platform — the Australian Geospatial Health Lab (AGeoH-L).

For more on the applications of GIS in health, connect with the Health Team.