Geospatial data sources to produce new evidence for routine population health monitoring

Abstract

Abstract Background Many public agencies collect geospatial data in relation to Environment and Territorial Planning. This data is harmonized, standardized, made available online, and it is often collected for a group of countries. These characteristics make this data particularly useful for population health studies, yet in public health there is a certain lack of knowledge with regard to this type of data. The large datasets, the data format and the ways to access this data all hamper their use. The aim of this work is to present an overview of geospatial databases that produce routinely available geospatial data able to support population health monitoring and interventions. The process of how to transform this data in evidence at the local scale will also be highlighted. Methods First, we conducted a survey via the websites of international public institutes with relevant geospatial data gathered for Europe. Second, we identified how we could transform the data into evidence relevant to both, population health studies and decision makers, namely at the local level. Results At the EU level, the European Territorial Observatory Network (ESPON), EUROSTAT, the Joint Research Centre and the Environment European Agency (EEA) are some examples of public agencies both producing and offering access to geospatial data. They are responsible for collecting data regarding, e.g., land use, road and rail networks, amenities and pollution. Although geospatial data has been compiled all over Europe, it can be used to produce evidence at the local level. For instance, it is possible to extract information on the greenspace area at a local administrative level from the Corine Land Cover project, managed by the EEA, and then, measure the share of area per inhabitant. Conclusions Geospatial data have much more to offer than the obvious location factor. It brings new evidence at the local level, supporting studies and empowering decision-makers at all levels.