Multilevel modelling of the geographical distributions of rare diseases

Langford, I.H., Leyland, A.H. , Rasbash, J. and Goldstein, H. (1999) Multilevel modelling of the geographical distributions of rare diseases. Applied Statistics, 48(2), pp. 253-268. (doi: 10.1111/1467-9876.00153)

Abstract

Multilevel modelling is used on problems arising from the analysis of spatially distributed health data. We use three applications to demonstrate the use of multilevel modelling in this area. The first concerns small area all-cause mortality rates from Glasgow where spatial autocorrelation between residuals is examined. The second analysis is of prostate cancer cases in Scottish counties where we use a range of models to examine whether the incidence is higher in more rural areas. The third develops a multiple-cause model in which deaths from cancer and cardiovascular disease in Glasgow are examined simultaneously in a spatial model. We discuss some of the issues surrounding the use of complex spatial models and the potential for future developments.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Leyland, Professor Alastair
• Authors: Langford, I.H., Leyland, A.H., Rasbash, J., and Goldstein, H.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
• Journal Name: Applied Statistics