The analysis of asthma and exposure data using geographic information systems and data mining information

Data mining was used to investigate two facts: that African Americans represent 15% of the population but 38% of patients needing treatment in a hospital emergency room for shortness of breath and that African Americans have extremely high rates of lung cancer while reporting lower rates of cigarette smoke and exposure to toxic chemicals. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) containing locations of businesses that release toxic chemicals were combined,g patient treatment and with information concerning patient treatment and outcomes for shortness of breath. It was determined that African Americans routinely under-report exposure, and this under-reporting can result in reduced treatment options.