Abstract
Objectives: To show how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) be used to promote awareness and motivate international action to make informed global health decisions. Specifically, the purpose of this study is to describe the prevalence and factors associated with Obstetric Fistula (OF) in Ethiopia and to define areas in need of aid. Methods: Choropleth maps were generated to geographically analyze both contributing factors and prevalence of obstetric fistula. Select by location functions were implemented to define measureable distances of accessibility to health facilities. Results: Distribution of accessible health facilities and primary roads are concentrated around Addis Ababa. The Tigray Region is in a transitional phase with both a high prevalence of aid and cases of obstetric fistula. Both the SNNP region and the Somali region experience high rates of OF with limited access to health care facilities and infrastructure Conclusions: GIS can be used to spatially analyze and represent contributing factors and occurrences of obstetric fistula. Obstetric fistula in Ethiopia is directly influenced by contributing causes that when targeted, decrease the prevalence of this epidemic. Furthermore, the distribution of infrastructure in Ethiopia is both irrational and inequitable to service the country’s far reaching health service needs.
Recommended Citation
Fernandez, Chloe
(2015)
"The Silent Epidemic: A Spatial Study of Obstetric Fistula in Ethiopia,"
Proceedings of GREAT Day: Vol. 2014, Article 5.
Available at:
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/proceedings-of-great-day/vol2014/iss1/5