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Marilyn F. Vine,¹ Darrah Degnan,¹ and Carol Hanchette²

¹Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400 USA; ²North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, State Center for Health Statistics, Raleigh, NC 27626-0538 USA

Abstract
Advances in geographic information system (GIS) technology, developed by geographers, provide new opportunities for environmental epidemiologists to study associations between environmental exposures and the spatial distribution of disease. A GIS is a powerful computer mapping and analysis technology capable of integrating large quantities of geographic (spatial) data as well as linking geographic with nongeographic data (e.g., demographic information, environmental exposure levels) . In this paper we provide an overview of some of the capabilities and limitations of GIS technology ; we illustrate, through practical examples, the use of several functions of a GIS including automated address matching, distance functions, buffer analysis, spatial query, and polygon overlay ; we discuss methods and limitations of address geocoding, often central to the use of a GIS in environmental epidemiologic research ; and we suggest ways to facilitate its use in future studies. Collaborative efforts between epidemiologists, biostatisticians, environmental scientists, GIS specialists, and medical geographers are needed to realize the full potential of GIS technology in environmental health research and may lead to innovative solutions to complex questions. Key words: address geocoding, computer mapping, environment, epidemiology, geographic information system(s) , GIS, medical geography, methods, review. Environ Health Perspect 105:598-605 (1997)

Address correspondence to M. F. Vine, Department of Epidemiology, CB#7400 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400 USA.

The authors would like to thank David Ethridge, formerly of the North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics, for his work in developing Figure 3.

Received 18 November 1996 ; accepted 14 February 1997.