anitaadjei200-tech/Spatial-Analysis-of-Unhealthy-Food-Consumption-in-Ghana

This project analyzes the spatial distribution of unhealthy food consumption among children aged 6–23 months in Ghana using GIS techniques. # Spatial-Analysis-of-Unhealthy-Food-Consumption-in-Ghana ### Project Overview This project applies Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize spatial patterns in public health indicators across Ghana, with a focus on unhealthy food consumption among children aged 6–23 months. Using ArcGIS for spatial analysis, the project transforms complex geographic and health data into clear, interpretable maps that support public health research, policy planning, and targeted interventions. ### Tools & Technologies ArcGIS Microsoft Excel (data cleaning & preparation) Administrative boundary shapefiles (Ghana) Public health and nutrition survey data (secondary data) ### Data Description The project uses spatial and attribute data including: National and regional administrative boundaries of Ghana Health and nutrition indicators aggregated at the regional and district levels Study site classification data (study vs non-study districts) All datasets were cleaned, standardized, and joined using unique geographic identifiers ### Spatial Analysis & Mapping Workflow #### 1. Data Exploration Examined attribute tables for missing values and inconsistencies Verified coordinate systems and spatial alignment Reviewed regional variations in health indicators #### 2. Spatial Data Processing (ArcGIS) The following GIS operations were performed: Attribute joins between health data and boundary shapefiles Data reclassification and normalization Choropleth mapping using graduated color symbology Spatial aggregation at regional and district levels #### 3. Thematic Mapping Outputs Two key map products were generated: National Choropleth Map Displays spatial distribution of unhealthy food consumption among children aged 6–23 months across Ghana District-Level Study Site Map (Western Region) Differentiates study and non-study districts Supports transparent and evidence-based site selection ### Key Insights & Findings Unhealthy food consumption shows strong regi …