Spatial and sex differences in AIDS mortality in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Aggregate mortality data do not tell us if AIDS mortality is uniformly reduced or if there is spatial differentiation. A total of 2432 male and 1864 female deaths (2000–2004) from AIDS in Chiang Rai are used to detect mortality clusters. Both male and female clusters are more or less in the same location implying similar risk factors; however, male clusters remain more prevalent as male patients are likely to be slower in getting treatment. The findings indicate non-random clustering and confirm that although mortality rates are significantly reduced in most areas some sub-districts need attention for follow-up public health efforts.