A geographic information system (GIS) based analysis of HIV/AIDS infected population and HIV prevention and educational facilities in Arkansas

A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that over 1.1 million people in the United States are living with HIV infection and close to 18.1% of the country's population are unaware that they are infected. HIV rates across the United States vary by region, with a greater proportion of infections found in the Southern states. Infection rates within the state of Arkansas have exceeded 200 people annually since 2004 and have been found predominantly within the age group 20-30. A number of HIV prevention and education facilities have been established across the state to meet for the needs of the affected populations. Yet, accessibility and spatial distribution of these facilities in relation to the HIV affected population is not well understood. The current research incorporates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial statistics in evaluating the distribution of preventive and educational facilities in conjunction with the distribution of the affected populations. Data on HIV infections obtained through the Arkansas Department of Health is used to map the distribution of HIV infections. Population distribution especially on various population demographics such as age groups and races are also mapped. A hotspot analysis that detects the unusual concentration of HIV infections in space relative to the availability of preventative or educational facilities is presented. Results obtained from this study will be useful in guiding the Arkansas Department of Health improve accessibility to these vital facilities. Implications and ideas for future research will also be presented.