GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION-SYSTEMS - THEIR USE IN ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH

Advances in geographic information system (GIS) technology, developed by geographers, provide new opportunities for environmental epidemiolo gists to study associations between environmental exposures and the sp atial distribution of disease. A GIS is a powerful computer mapping an d analysis technology capable of integrating large quantities of geogr aphic (spatial) data as well as linking geographic with nongeographic data (e.g., demographic information, environmental exposure levels). I n this paper we provide an overview of some of the capabilities and li mitations of GIS technology; we illustrate, through practical examples , the use of several functions of a GIS including automated address ma tching, distance functions, buffer analysis, spatial query, and polygo n overlay; we discuss methods and limitations of address geocoding, of ten central to the use of a GIS in environmental epidemiologic researc h; and we suggest ways to facilitate its use in future studies. Collab orative efforts between epidemiologists, biostatisticians, environment al scientists, GIS specialists, and medical geographers are needed to realize the full potential of GIS technology in environmental health r esearch and may lead to innovative solutions to complex questions.