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Identifying areas with high breast cancer mortality rates, using GIS mapping and secondary data sources
Objective/purpose: This research uses secondary data resources to determine how Central City differs from the rest of Lucas County regarding numerous risk factors. Utilizing geographic and census data sources, the “Central City Model” (CCM) includes factors such as income level and proximity to grocery stores, green space, and medical facilities. Using the CCM, agencies in Ohio may identify high breast cancer risk areas and proactively inject resources to provide assistance.
Methods: Census data is used for obtaining area demographics; tumor registry information for demographics and co-morbidities for breast cancer patients; CDC and web-based sources for area risk assessments; and GIS overlays for healthcare resource and environmental information. These data sources provide a comprehensive view of the breast cancer population in the Central City.
Results: Based upon similar research targeting diabetes and cervical cancer, we believe the CCM may help identify other geographic areas that are at risk for high breast cancer mortality rates, and target these areas for specific health programs.
Discussion/conclusions: Although secondary data sources vary in timeliness and quality, they are available at a relatively low cost. Utilizing these resources to identify at-risk geographical areas is a cost efficient means for assisting vulnerable populations.
Learning Areas:
Communication and informaticsOther professions or practice related to public health
Learning Objectives:
Discuss the impact of environmental risk factors, such as proximity to health care resources, transportation, grocery stores, public schools and crime areas on breast cancer mortality rates.
Discuss how utilizing various secondary data resources in concert can allow researchers to gain new perspectives on health issues
Describe the methods and costs for obtaining and analyzing secondary data sources.
Keyword(s): Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Cancer Prevention and Screening
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am currently a student in Health Education with cognates in Statistics and Geographic Information Systems. My education and experience prior to my doctoral work was in IT and data analysis. My graduate assistantship is with the Center for Health and Successful Living. At the Center I work with vulnerable populations (minority groups and low SES). Primarily, our work is with women from Lucas County Ohio who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.