Methods to monitor geographic patterns have received growing interest in recent years. Using an integrated approach, Statistical Detection and Monitoring of Geographic Clusters provides a thorough review of methods for cluster detection, organized according to the different types of hypotheses that can be investigated using these t
The widespread popularity of geographic information systems (GIS) has led to new insights in countless areas of application. It has facilitated not only the collection and storage of geographic data, but also the display of such data. Building on this progress by using an integrated approach, Statistical Detection and Monitoring of Geographic Clusters provides the statistical tools to identify whether data on a given map deviates significantly from expectations and to determine quickly whether new point patterns are emerging over time.
The book begins with a review of statistical methods for cluster detection, organized according to the different types of hypotheses and questions about clustering that can be investigated. It then delineates methods that allow for the quick detection of emergent geographic clusters.
The book delivers a cohesive presentation unlike that of most edited volumes. Drawing on the authors' extensive work in the field, the book delineates methods in such a way that they can be applied, almost instantly, to an array of disciplines. The readily applicable methods the book describes are useful for a multitude of problems in a variety of fields, particularly disease surveillance in the public health industry. Statistical Detection and Monitoring of Geographic Clusters is an essential volume for your reference shelf.
Researchers in a surprisingly diverse range of disciplines find themselves faced with problems needing the methods that are described in this book: the detection of anomalous groupings of objects or events within geographical distributions. ? Chapters 7-10 [explore] methods for the prospective detection of changes as they occur. This area is rapidly becoming increasingly important in applications such as detecting outbreaks of disease, fraud and even potential terrorist activity. The book is liberally illustrated with real examples and data ? a good introduction to the ideas for students encountering them for the first time.-Journal of the Royal Statistical Society, Series A, 2010Attractive features of this book are: (1) introduction of various statistical methods/tests for geographic clusters and surveillance, (2) many figures and tables to facilitate understanding, and (3) illustration of each method with real data. ? readers who are particularly interested in surveillance will find this book a helpful guide.-Journal of the American Statistical Association, Sept. 2010, Vol. 105, No. 491In contrast to most edited books, the authors' text provides a comprehensive presentation that will provide a valuable reference source for years to come. I recommend that anyone working with geographic information systems (GIS) consult this volume, as there are many valuable nuggets of information-many unexpected!-International Statistical Review, 2009
