Bayesian semiparametric modeling for matched case-control studies with multiple disease states

Biometrics. 2004 Mar;60(1):41-9. doi: 10.1111/j.0006-341X.2004.00169.x.

Abstract

We present a Bayesian approach to analyze matched "case-control" data with multiple disease states. The probability of disease development is described by a multinomial logistic regression model. The exposure distribution depends on the disease state and could vary across strata. In such a model, the number of stratum effect parameters grows in direct proportion to the sample size leading to inconsistent MLEs for the parameters of interest even when one uses a retrospective conditional likelihood. We adopt a semiparametric Bayesian framework instead, assuming a Dirichlet process prior with a mixing normal distribution on the distribution of the stratum effects. We also account for possible missingness in the exposure variable in our model. The actual estimation is carried out through a Markov chain Monte Carlo numerical integration scheme. The proposed methodology is illustrated through simulation and an example of a matched study on low birth weight of newborns (Hosmer, D. A. and Lemeshow, S., 2000, Applied Logistic Regression) with two possible disease groups matched with a control group.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Bayes Theorem*
  • Biometry
  • Case-Control Studies*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Low Birth Weight
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Likelihood Functions
  • Logistic Models
  • Markov Chains
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Pregnancy