The use of cluster detection and surveillance has become an important component of geographic information systems (GIS), and this book explores some of the methods and software used to collect, store and display these real-world datasets. Rogerson (geography, U. at Buffalo) and Yamada (geography, U. of Utah) use an integrated approach so that researchers can identify statistical deviations and emerging point patterns from surveillance data. The authors focus primarily on the use of these geographic clusters for disease surveillance in the public health sector, but applications in other industries are also described. A companion website offers the GeoSurveillance software for download. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)