Bayesian hierarchical piecewise regression models: a tool to detect trajectory divergence between groups in long-term observational studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bayesian hierarchical piecewise regression (BHPR) modeling has not been previously formulated to detect and characterise the mechanism of trajectory divergence between groups of participants that have longitudinal responses with distinct developmental phases. These models are useful when participants in a prospective cohort study are grouped according to a distal dichotomous health outcome. Indeed, a refined understanding of how deleterious risk factor profiles develop across the life-course may help inform early-life interventions. Previous techniques to determine between-group differences in risk factors at each age may result in biased estimate of the age at divergence.

Methods

We demonstrate the use of Bayesian hierarchical piecewise regression (BHPR) to gener

SUBMITTER: Buscot MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5461770 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature