ARS | Publication request: THE COMMUNITY NUTRITION MAPPING PROJECT (CNMAP)

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: April 27, 2006
Publication Date: April 27, 2006
Citation: Harris, E.W., Nowverl, A.B. 2006. The Community Nutrition Mapping Project (CNMap). Sixth International Conference on Dietary Assessment Methods, Copenhagen, Denmark, April 27-29, 2006, Abstract #SY00-01.

Technical Abstract: Geographical Information Systems (GIS) tools have tremendous potential to create profiles, which can be used to characterize communities by food program participation, food habits, environment and socio-demographic variables. These tools can be used to identify community problems; inform, educate and empower people about health issues; develop policies and plans that support community health; and link people to needed services. The Community Nutrition Mapping Project (CNMap) is an application that combines and aggregates food and nutritional indicators to create a snapshot of human nutrition, health and behavior at the state and regional level. GIS software is combined with national food survey data and other data on physical activity, body weight, healthy eating patterns, food security, and Census demographics. Estimates are created by merging state Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) code to respondents in a national food survey; then aggregating their nutrient and Pyramid Servings intakes to state levels. Regional estimates are used for states with no respondents in the survey. Sample weights are ratio adjusted to reflect state population totals as needed. CNMap, version 1, was developed using the last USDA Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals and provides a series of easy-to-read tables that can be accessed via the World Wide Web. CNMap, version 2, updated with the latest National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data, will be presented.