Estimating the reliability of an exposure variable in the presence of confounders

Stat Med. 1995 Jul 15;14(13):1437-46. doi: 10.1002/sim.4780141304.

Abstract

In this paper we discuss estimation of the reliability of an exposure variable in the presence of confounders measured without error. We give an explicit formula that shows how the exposure becomes less reliable as the degree of correlation between the exposure and confounders increases. We also discuss biases in the corresponding logistic regression estimates and methods for correction. Data from a matched case-control study of hormone levels and risk of breast cancer are used to illustrate the methods.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical*
  • Estradiol / blood
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Reproducibility of Results*
  • Risk*

Substances

  • Estradiol