Interactive London PCT map shows STD increase

An online interactive map that shows incidences of STD cases in London over the past seven years has been published by researchers at the University of Bath with the intention of improving planning and monitoring of sexual health services.

The map, which is plotted in the Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) language with GeoReveal software, shows the increase of STDs by PCT based on figures published by the Minister for Public Health. According to the researchers, a visual and scalable map makes the statistics much easier to understand.

“Looking for patterns, trends and comparisons in this kind of data is crucial for decision-makers seeking to tackle public health issues," said Dr Maged Boulous, healthcare informatics lecturer at the University of Bath.

“When combined with other data sources and maps, such as demographic, deprivation or social exclusion, transport and existing genito-urinary medicine clinic data sets, the new map could help ministers and public health officials channel their resources and target STD prevention programmes to the areas with the most need."

The researchers, who also include Chris Russell and Michael Smith from Graphical Data Capture, manufacturers of the GeoReveal product, praise the use of the XML-based SVG format over other technology such as Macromedia Flash, and say that such interactive maps have been adapted from other health data for other uses.

The maps show an even greater need for action over rising STD levels, say the researchers. “Given the steadily-rising STD rates in London over the past few years, current STD prevention and education programme must be urgently stepped up and revised, especially in those ‘hot’ areas with high rates," said Dr Boulous.

The research paper is available from the International Journal of Health Geographics. (www.ij-healthgeographics.com/home). The map itself can be seen here with the Adobe SVG viewer.