Abstract
This chapter explores the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geospatial Technology (GT) to assess patterns of substance abuse. While geospatial techniques encompass a range of approaches for data collection, analysis and visualization, GIS is the platform through which data are organized and managed, analyzed for relationships across space and time, and visualized in the form of a map. Differences between vector and raster data are discussed, with vector data noted as the most common form of data used in substance abuse research. Mechanisms of data input are also discussed, including secondary sources of spatial data, geocoding, digitizing, and use of GPS receivers to collect original data. Varying geographic scales are considered, including challenges associated with working with aggregated space. Data models for spatial analysis are also explored. Lastly, a review of the extant research on geospatial approaches to understand substance abuse is presented, including exploration of emergent geospatial approaches to understanding substance use and abuse.
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