Abstract
 Effect of Altitude and Smoking on Low Birth Weight Track: Health and Human Services Author(s): Devon Williford The State of Colorado is studying the effects of altitude and cigarette smoking on the occurrence of low birth weight, to identify specific communities of high risk and concern. The number of low birth weight in Colorado has been higher than the national average for each year since 1950, and this problem is recognized as a significant health issue. Using confidential information recorded through state birth certificates, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is examining the spatial distribution of more than 560,000 birth records, containing the address and cigarette smoking habits of each mother, from 1993-2002. These records were geo-referenced, given an elevation attribute, and analyzed in a GIS environment, utilizing statistical tools for detecting significant clusters of low birth weight. The results of the analysis allows medical professionals to view the occurrence of low birth weight in a more quantitative environment than has previously been available. Devon Williford Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver , CO 80246-1530 US Phone: 303-692-2247 Fax: 303-691-7821 E-mail: Devon.Williford@state.co.us |
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