Chicago community research map (CCRM): Using a visualization tool to advance health disparity research

Background: The Chicago Community Research Map (CCRM) was developed in March 2012 in collaboration with community-based researchers at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Northwestern University (NU), and University of Chicago (UC), local community organizations, and The Chicago Consortium for Community Engagement.

Objective/Purpose: We sought to identify community-based research (CBR) already underway in Chicago communities, current university-community partnerships, and related opportunities to better meet key health priorities.

Methods: CBR projects at UIC, NW and UC were identified and validated. We constructed the CCRM, an information system that includes a relational database accessible via a dynamic web interface. The CCRM provides profiles of active research projects linked to a geographic map of the 77 Chicago community areas; a search tool and a showcase of projects by research topic. A version with select census data and density map highlighting CBR concentration across communities is under development.

Results: Preliminary analysis focuses on data from 2010-2012. A total of 175 CBR projects were identified. The reach of the three institutions overlapped in some areas: 44 communities have active CBR projects from at least two institutions. All community areas had at least one CBR project. Communities with seven or more active projects had a lower average income and a predominantly minority race/ethnicity composition when compared to communities with fewer active projects. HIV-related projects were most frequent (23%). The four areas with the most HIV projects comprised an average population of African American (85%), White (7%), Hispanic (4%) and Others (4%).

Discussion/Conclusion: The CCRM provides users with timely information about CBR underway in Chicago communities. It can be used to identify which health priorities and populations are targeted most frequently, as well as gaps and opportunities. The CCRM holds promise to enhance collaborative networks between academically-based CBR and community partners.