Green, M. J. and Popham, F. (2017) Life course models: improving interpretation by consideration of total effects. International Journal of Epidemiology, 46(3), pp. 1057-1062. (doi: 10.1093/ije/dyw329) (PMID:28031311) (PMCID:PMC5837734)
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Abstract
Life course epidemiology has used models of accumulation and critical or sensitive periods to examine the importance of exposure timing in disease aetiology. These models are usually used to describe the direct effects of exposures over the life course. In comparison with consideration of direct effects only, we show how consideration of total effects improves interpretation of these models, giving clearer notions of when it will be most effective to intervene. We show how life course variation in the total effects depends on the magnitude of the direct effects and the stability of the exposure. We discuss interpretation in terms of total, direct and indirect effects and highlight the causal assumptions required for conclusions as to the most effective timing of interventions.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Popham, Dr Frank and Green, Dr Michael |
| Authors: | Green, M. J., and Popham, F. |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU |
| Journal Name: | International Journal of Epidemiology |
| Publisher: | Oxford University Press |
| ISSN: | 0300-5771 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1464-3685 |
| Published Online: | 12 December 2016 |
| Copyright Holders: | Copyright © 2016 The Authors |
| First Published: | First published in International Journal of Epidemiology 46(3): 1057-1062 |
| Publisher Policy: | Reproduced under a Creative Commons License |
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