Mapping sexually transmitted diseases in the Calgary Health Region

The objective of this study is to investigate the spatial patterning of the individuals with gonorrhea or chlamydia infection in the Calgary Health Region (CHR) from January 1, 1998 to July 8, 2002. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to map the standardized prevalence rates of gonorrhea and chlamydia infection in the CHR to 2001 Census Tracts (CT's) in the CHR. Data from the 2001 Canadian Census were used to describe the socio-demographic features of these areas.; A correlation was detected between areas of low SES and areas of high prevalence rates for gonorrhea and for chlamydia. These areas clustered primarily downtown and in the north-east part of the city. The study's purpose was to help target healthcare resources for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) prevention and control towards identified high prevalence areas. This can be done at the community level through measures such as more STD Clinics operating with longer hours in areas identified from this mapping. This study needs to be repeated over time to follow trends and to gauge the effectiveness of future interventions.