Guidelines for Examining Unusual Patterns of Cancer and Environmental Concerns

Spatial Clusters Training by Frank Curriero

Purpose

This training covers methods for analyzing spatial clusters, as originally discussed in the CDC/ATSDR Guidelines for Examining Unusual Patterns of Cancer and Environmental Concerns.

Course length: 16 Minutes 30 Seconds
Date updated: July 16, 2025
Audio Description Transcript Low Resolution Video

Training overview

This training covers basic concepts, software and methods for analyzing spatial clusters, as originally discussed in the CDC/ATSDR Guidelines for Examining Unusual Patterns of Cancer and Environmental Concerns. The concept of spatial clustering (aka spatial autocorrelation) and a method of cluster detection are defined in the context of describing geographic patterns of cancer. Concepts and methods are demonstrated using freely available software, describing spatial patterns of prostate cancer and lung cancer. The presentation discusses further considerations of data and methods when studying geographic patterns of cancer.

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Content Source:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry