Density equalized map projections: A method for analysing clustering around a fixed point

Cases plotted on a geopolitical map entail difficulties in interpretation and analysis because of variable population density in the study area. Density equalized map projections (DEMPs) eliminate the distribution of the resident population as an interfering influence by transforming map area to be proportional to population. This paper discusses a transformation algorithm, its properties, and develops statistical methods to detect clustering of cases around a fixed point for data plotted on DEMPs. We suggest two numeric methods where exact solutions are too complicated or do not exist. Finally, we illustrate these methods using data from Denver and Jefferson counties in Colorado to investigate whether lung cancer and leukaemia incidence patterns are associated with plutonium exposure from the Rocky Flats plant site.