Adjusting for truncated study duration in recurrent event analysis: A weighting approach for clinical trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In recurrent event analysis with fixed follow-up intervals, truncated follow-up due to early dropout or study termination introduces bias and reduces precision in risk estimates, particularly in clinical trials where shorter observation periods may underestimate event risks.

Methods

We propose a time-based weighting approach using the ratio of observed-to-expected follow-up duration in the Prentice-Williams-Peterson Gap Time (PWP-GT) model. The method was evaluated in simulations and applied to a double-blinded trial (N = 4000) comparing 500 mg vs. 1500 mg daily calcium supplementation for preeclampsia prevention. For demonstration of the problem and application of the weighting method, drug non-adherence at follow-up visits was considered as the recurrent event.<

SUBMITTER: Michael Raj A J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12779063 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature