| Joshua J. Cook, Louise S. Hadden, Swann Arp Adams |
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) maintains the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), which is a rich source of survey data for public health and epidemiological research. BRFSS collects data in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia and three U.S. territories, and includes data on health-related risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and use of preventive services. Geospatial analysis is a crucial tool in public health and epidemiology, offering insights into geographic patterns and trends. This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of geocoding and mapping techniques using SAS® and R, utilizing data from the CDC BRFSS. By demonstrating how to geocode and visually map public health data, we seek to empower researchers and practitioners with the skills necessary to conduct basic spatial analyses. In this session, we will illustrate the process of geocoding and mapping BRFSS data using SAS® PROC GEOCODE and PROC SGMAP procedures, alongside equivalent methods in R, using packages such as tidygeocoder, ggplot2, and plotly. Attendees will gain insights into the strengths and limitations of each approach, understanding how to choose the appropriate tools for their specific needs. Key topics will include an overview of the CDC BRFSS dataset and its relevance to public health, step-by-step guidance on geocoding and generating spatial coordinates, techniques for creating informative and aesthetically pleasing maps, with direct comparisons between SAS® and R in terms of functionality, ease of use, and output quality. By the end of this lecture, participants will be equipped with practical knowledge to apply geocoding and mapping techniques in their work, enhancing their ability to analyze spatial data and make data-driven decisions in public health. |