PhD Study : Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and secondary data to investigate relationships between Diabetes prevalence and socio-demographic factors

Summary

Diabetes has been described as a global epidemic (Bassett, 2005) with an estimated 451 million people experiencing the illness in 2017 (Cho et al., 2018). The disease necessitates strict self-management practices for patients and leads to significant health costs (Fernandes et al., 2016) at a time when public health funds are under increasing pressure. While there are known links between diabetes and obesity (Kahn et al., 2006), a range of environmental variables are associated with diabetes (e.g. socioeconomic status and rurality). Furthermore, studies also indicate strong links between obesity and “activity spaces” (Kestens et al., 2010) and “foodscapes” (Mackenbach et al., 2019).

This research project aims to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic data and foodscapes and diabetes rates across Northern Ireland.

Specific objectives are:

1.To use a Geographic Information System (GIS) based approach to map longitudinal diabetes data (2013-2017) at Super Output Area (SOA) level across Northern Ireland.

2.To create a spatial database that consists of (i) socioeconomic data and (ii) a measure of accessibility to a range of fast food outlets.

3.To investigate the relationship between diabetes and socioeconomic and foodscape variables using statistical techniques.

It is hypothesized that diabetes rates will be positively correlated to a range of socioeconomic and environmental variables. This project would suit a student with a health sciences background. While IT experience is advantageous, GIS training will be provided as part of the MRes programme. Knowledge and experience of statistics would be desirable.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Funding and eligibility