An analysis of spatial and socio-economic determinants of tuberculosis in Hermosillo, Mexico, 2000-2006.
METHODS
The city of Hermosillo, in Northwest Mexico, has a higher incidence of tuberculosis (TB) than the national average. However, the intra-urban TB distribution, which could limit the effectiveness of preventive strategies and control, is unknown.


METHODS
Using geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis, we characterized the geographical distribution of TB by basic geostatistical area (BGA), and compared it with a social deprivation index. Univariate and bivariate techniques were used to detect risk areas.


RESULTS
Globally, TB in the city of Hermosillo is not spatially auto-correlated, but local clusters with high incidence and mortality rates were identified in the northwest, central-east and southwest sections of the city. BGAs with high social deprivation had an excess risk of TB.


CONCLUSIONS
GIS and spatial analysis are useful tools to detect high TB risk areas in the city of Hermosillo. Such areas may be vulnerable due to low socio-economic status. The study of small geographical areas in urban settings similar to Hermosillo could indicate the best course of action to be taken for TB prevention and control.
Alvarez-Hernández
G
G
Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. galvarez@guayacan.uson.mx
Lara-Valencia
F
F
Reyes-Castro
P A
PA
Rascón-Pacheco
R A
RA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008800:Mexico / Q000453:epidemiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011153:Population; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D018570:Risk Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D014505:Urban Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D055815:Young Adult