Nonlinear Models in Medical Statistics

Book excerpt: This text provides an introduction to the use of nonlinear models in medical statistics. It is a practical text rather than a theoretical one and assumes a basic knowledge of statistical modelling and of generalized linear models. It begins with a general introduction to nonlinear models, comparing them to generalized linear models, descriptions of data handling and formula definition and a summary of the principal types of nonlinear regression formulae. There is an emphasis on techniques for non-normal data. Following chapters provide detailed examples of applications in various areas of medicine, epidemiology, clinical trials, quality of life, pharmokinetics, pharmacodynamics, assays and formulations, and moleuclar genetics.