Efficacy calculation in randomized trials: global or local measures?

Health Place. 2007 Mar;13(1):238-48. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2006.01.005. Epub 2006 Mar 10.

Abstract

This study tests whether the effect of a vaccine trial varies in space and why. Analytical z-score maps identify unusually high- and low-efficacy values in a trial area. Relationships between neighborhood efficacy and ecological variables are measured to explain why efficacy varies in space. Efficacy was found to vary regardless of neighborhood size and the variation is related to several ecological determinants. Local efficacy measures can help public health practitioners make better decisions about when and where to vaccinate populations. The concepts offered in this study are pertinent for any health intervention trial, not just vaccines.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Bangladesh / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cholera / epidemiology
  • Cholera / prevention & control*
  • Cholera Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Drug Evaluation / methods*
  • Female
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Herd
  • Immunization Programs*
  • Male
  • Population Surveillance
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic*
  • Residence Characteristics
  • Treatment Outcome*

Substances

  • Cholera Vaccines