Population Size, Distribution and Concentration

Abstract

The size of the population within a geographic area – typically measured in terms of the number of people – is the simplest and most straightforward of demographic attributes. And, for many purposes, it is the most important. Not only is the size of a population important in its own right, but many of the calculations utilized in determining healthcare needs and health services demand depend on this information. After size, the pattern of distribution and concentration of persons within a geographic area probably is next in importance for anyone examining the interface of demographics and healthcare.