Using Geographic Information Systems to measure retail food environments: Discussion of methodological considerations and a proposed reporting checklist (Geo-FERN).

Emma L Wilkins, Michelle A Morris, Duncan Radley, Claire Griffiths

Journal: Health & place 2018;44():110-117

PMID: 28236788

Free Full Text on Elsevier Science View on PubMed

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are widely used to measure retail food environments. However the methods used are hetrogeneous, limiting collation and interpretation of evidence. This problem is amplified by unclear and incomplete reporting of methods. This discussion (i) identifies common dimensions of methodological diversity across GIS-based food environment research (data sources, data extraction methods, food outlet construct definitions, geocoding methods, and access metrics), (ii) reviews the impact of different methodological choices, and (iii) highlights areas where reporting is insufficient. On the basis of this discussion, the Geo-FERN reporting checklist is proposed to support methodological reporting and interpretation.

Address: Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3QS, UK. Electronic address: [email protected].; Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.; Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3QS, UK.

DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2017.01.008

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MeSH Terms: Checklist, Commerce, Environment, Food, Food Supply, Geographic Information Systems, Humans, Research Design, Residence Characteristics, Restaurants