Methodological issues underlying multiple decrement life table analysis
Mode, C.J.; Avery, R.C.; Littman, G.S.; Potter, R.G.
Demography 14(1): 87-96
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0070-3370 PMID: 836445 DOI: 10.2307/2060457Document Number: 324049
In this paper, the actuarial method of multiple decrement life table analysis of censored, longitudinal data is examined. The discussion is organized in terms of the first segment of usage of an intrauterine device. Weaknesses of the actuarial approach are pointed out, and an alternative approach, based on the classical model of competing risks, is proposed. Finally, the actuarial and the alternative method of analyzing censored data are compared, using data from the Taichung Medical Study on Intrauterine Devices.