Troubled by Ubble

Mackenzie, M. , Collins, C., McCartney, G., McCrory, M. and Wright, S. (2015) Troubled by Ubble. Lancet(386), p. 2055. (doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(15)00970-8) (PMID:26700389)

Abstract

In their Article (Aug 8, p 533), Andrea Ganna and Erik Ingelsson1 provided a model to predict premature mortality. Using UK Biobank data, the authors developed a question set that claimed to predict the likelihood of an individual (aged 40–70 years) dying within 5 years. A so-called death quiz storm has ensued on social media. Leaving aside data concerns,2 we query the purpose of turning a predictive population model into a so-called trendable, individualised quiz. We also raise the implications for how, in this case, premature mortality is being represented to the public.

• Item Type: Articles (Letter)
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Wright, Professor Sharon and Mackenzie, Professor Mhairi
• Authors: Mackenzie, M., Collins, C., McCartney, G., McCrory, M., and Wright, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Social Scientists working in Health and Wellbeing; College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Urban Studies
• Journal Name: Lancet
• Publisher: The Lancet Publishing Group
• ISSN: 0140-6736
• ISSN (Online): 1474-547X