Spatial Analysis of Factors Affecting Colorectal Cancer Using the Model of Geographical Weight Regression in Iran

The incidence of colorectal cancer has increased significantly in Iran in recent decades. The pattern of occurrence varies in different populations. A study was conducted to perform a spatial analysis of colorectal cancer and some of its risk factors in Iran using GIS. 

The data of this descriptive-analytic study included colorectal cancer incidence as a dependent variable and physical activity, Body Mass Index and smoking as independent variables recorded by the Cancer Department, Center for Non-Communicable Diseases Management, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education and the care system for non-communicable disease risk factors according to province and gender in 2009. Data was analyzed using the ArcGIS 10.3 software and spatial correlation analysis, hot spots analysis, and geographic weighted regression model. 

The spatial relationship between the disease and some of its risk factors was confirmed by the model of geographical weight regression, according to which the northern and central provinces had the highest risk of colorectal cancer compared to other regions of the country. 

The results of this study showed that spatial analysis could be useful in identifying disease patterns, prioritizing the factors affecting it, and controlling the disease through strategic planning and interventions.