The relevance of spatial aggregation level and of applied methods in the analysis of geographical distribution of cancer mortality in mainland Portugal (2009-2013).

Our findings show that the choice of spatial data aggregation level has high importance in the research results, as different aggregation levels can lead to distinct results. In terms of the case study, we conclude that for the period of 2009-2013, cancer mortality in mainland Portugal formed clusters. The most suitable applicable spatial scale and method seemed to be at the municipalities level and Besag, York and Mollié model, respectively. However, further studies should be conducted in order to provide greater support to these results.