Mapping the core: Chlamydia and gonorrhea infections in Calgary, Alberta

Objectives: To examine the spatial patterning of the individuals with gonorrhea or chlamydia infection in the Calgary Health Region (CHR) to target prevention and control activities. Methods: A Geographic Information System was used to map the prevalence rates of gonorrhea and chlamydia infection in the CHR to 2001 Census Tracts in the CHR. Data from the 2001 Canadian Census were used to describe the socioeconomic status (SES) of these areas. Results: Low SES indicators correlated with each other (low median household income, lower education, single mothers) as did high SES indicators (married, owning a dwelling, high median income, university education). A correlation was detected between areas of low SES and areas of high prevalence rates for gonorrhea and for chlamydia. These areas clustered primarily downtown and in the northeast part of the city. Conclusions: Nodes and corridors of activity in Calgary were detected in correlation studies of the 2001 Census variables used. The core (high prevalence) areas should be the areas targeted for sexually transmitted infection prevention and control. This can be done at the community level through measures such as more sexually transmitted infection clinics operating with longer hours in areas identified from this mapping.