Australian Cancer Atlas

The Australian Cancer Atlas (ACA) provides small-area estimates of cancer incidence and survival in Australia to help identify and address geographical health disparities.

Key Features:

• Wave plot: One of three complementary visualization methods for communicating estimate uncertainty to multiple audiences.
• V-plot: One of three complementary visualization methods for communicating estimate uncertainty to multiple audiences.
• Color transparency: One of three complementary visualization methods for communicating estimate uncertainty to multiple audiences.
• Bayesian model integration: Digital prototyping was developed in parallel with Bayesian model development to produce the estimates and their uncertainty visualizations.

Scientific Applications:

• Geographical health disparity identification: Enables detection of spatial variation in cancer incidence and survival across small areas in Australia.
• Uncertainty communication for public health: Supports interpretation of geostatistical model uncertainty by researchers, health practitioners, policy makers, and the general public.

Methodology:

The atlas was developed through a 21-month user-centered design study including a scoping study, literature review, target audience focus groups, digital prototyping in parallel with Bayesian model development, and iterative feedback from workshops, audience focus groups, and an expert external advisory group.