GIS Mapping Project

In summer 2010, we began a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping project.  GIS mapping is used to help us understand the distribution of health conditions and their risk factors among different populations.  This information helps us identify the types of interventions that are needed in different populations to improve health and how to develop effective interventions in different locations.  Our project began with the collection of basic information about the types of food available to students in Lawrence, KS, as well as locations for physical activity and possible environmental hazards.  This baseline data helped us to obtain funding for a larger project.  We will be mapping all food outlets with prices, locations to purchase tobacco products and alcohol with prices, and all potential areas of physical activity in a one-mile radius of two universities in Lawrence, KS.