Spatial epidemiology plays an important role in control and prevention of diseases

Spatial epidemiology is a new branch of epidemiology that aims to map the spatial distribution and characteristics as well as to explore the associated influencing factors of diseases by using the geographic information system and other spatial technologies. In recent years, with the rapid development of information-related modern technology, improvement of accessibility on health - related services, natural environment, social and economic big data etc., spatial epidemiology has made considerable progress in both theory and practice and played more important roles in the public health area of China. Key words: Spatial epidemiology; Spatial analysis; Disease control and prevention