Spatial point pattern analysis and its application in geographical epidemiology

Anthony C. Gatrell, Trevor C. Bailey, Peter J. Diggle, Barry S. Rowlingson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

493 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper reviews a number of methods for the exploration and modelling of spatial point patterns with particular reference to geographical epidemiology (the geographical incidence of disease). Such methods go well beyond the conventional 'nearest-neighbour' and 'quadrat' analyses \vhich have little to offer in an epidemiological context because they fail to allow for spatial variation in population density. Correction for this is essential if the aim is to assess the evidence for 'clustering' of cases of disease. We examine methods for exploring spatial variation in disease risk, spatial and space-time clustering, and we consider methods for modelling the raised incidence of disease around suspected point sources of pollution. All methods are illustrated by reference to recent case studies including child cancer incidence, Burkitt's lymphoma, cancer of the larynx and childhood asthma. An Appendix considers a range of possible software environments within which to apply these methods. The links to modern geographical information systems are discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)256-274
Number of pages19
JournalTransactions of the Institute of British Geographers
Volume21
Issue number1
StatePublished - 1996
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Spatial point patterns spatial clustering epidemiology geographical information systems

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • General Earth and Planetary Sciences
  • General Environmental Science

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