Kernel density mapping may enhance interpretation of the determinants of disease distribution in a given area. For example, in this map clustering of heart disease deaths is concordant with higher death rates depicted in a choropleth map (accompanying submission) in the cities of New Hope, Robbinsdale, St. Louis Park, and Spring Park. The clusters were almost entirely attributable to the presence of care facilities for the elderly in these municipalities. In contrast, kernel density “cold spots” like the City of Greenfield and Hassan Township in the far West of Hennepin County actually showed very high rates of heart disease deaths in the choropleth map because the few deaths occurring there did so against the backdrop of very low denominator populations. One could therefore argue – at least in this example – that the kernel density map was a better indicator of heart disease death activity than the more traditional choropleth map. The purpose of this map was to enhance interpretation of the determinants of heart disease death distribution in a given area.
