Ring maps for spatial visualization of multivariate epidemiological data

Abstract

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Epidemiological research often involves the visual exploration of numerous attributes to help discern patterns between health and characteristics of the physical, socioeconomic, or built environment. Unfortunately, many of the multivariate mapping techniques discussed throughout the cartographic literature can be challenging to create or interpret—particularly for individuals without a cartographic background. In this paper, we present a new style of multivariate map—the ring map—to aid in basic visualization of multivariate datasets. For purposes of example, we focus on the use of the ring map style for exploring county-level epidemiological data for the state of South Carolina to examine patterns of age, race, or gender specific mortality and morbidity within a population.