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Improving the epidemiology of alcohol-related violence in the city of Philadelphia using geospatial analysis
Thesis

Improving the epidemiology of alcohol-related violence in the city of Philadelphia using geospatial analysis

Elizabeth Nobis
Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), Drexel University
Jun 2012
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-3946
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Nobis_Elizabeth_20122.36 MB
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Abstract

Alcohol-Related Violence Pennsylvania--Philadelphia Geospatial Analysis Epidemiology Public Health Violence
Background: In the United States, alcohol related violence is a major public health problem. There is a significant amount of evidence suggesting that the density of alcohol outlets and the level of social disorganization in a neighborhood are related to levels of violent assault. Less is known about the spatial distribution of assaults surrounding these alcohol outlets including the neighborhood characteristic of vacant lots. Better understanding these spatial linkages will contribute to improvements in the public health efforts to suppress violence and morbidity. Objective: This project aims to determine whether the density of alcohol outlets in Philadelphia is associated with neighborhood levels of violence and whether this relationship is influenced by the density of vacant lots. It was then investigated how violence geographical clusters around these spaces. Methods: This study utilized police-recorded data of aggravated assaults in Philadelphia, alcohol outlet addresses in Philadelphia, and 2010 Census Bureau block group information. Descriptive statistics, regression, spatial clustering, and qualitative mapping analysis were used to identify the distribution and relationships of assaults in the city. Results: Areas with higher percentages of vacant housing in combination with high density of alcohol outlets have a positive relationship with increased levels of aggravated assaults. This effect is most evident in economically disadvantaged areas. Conclusion: There is significant evidence that aggravated assaults are spatially linked to alcohol outlets and vacant lots. Development of alcohol policy, as well as improving neighborhood environments in low-income areas will reduce alcohol-related violence and improve the safety of Philadelphia's general public.

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