Bayesian Decision-Theoretic Methods for Survival Data using Stochastic Optimization

Stat Med. 2020 Dec 30;39(30):4841-4852. doi: 10.1002/sim.8755. Epub 2020 Oct 15.

Abstract

We introduce a principled method for Bayesian subgroup analysis. The approach is based on casting subgroup analysis as a Bayesian decision problem. The two main innovations are: (1) the explicit consideration of a "subgroup report," comprising multiple subpopulations; and (2) adapting an inhomogeneous Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation scheme to implement stochastic optimization. The latter makes the search for "subgroup reports" practically feasible.

Keywords: Bayesian; MCMC; clinical; inhomogeneous; subgroups.

MeSH terms

  • Bayes Theorem
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Markov Chains
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Research Design*