Mary Ganguli,MD, MPH - 

Professor of Psychiatry, Neurology, and Epidemiology

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and School of Public Health

Chung-Chou (Joyce) H. Chang, PhD - 

Professor of Medicine, Biostatistics, and Clinical and Translational Science

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and School of Public Health

Ttle: The Art of Collaboration: Illustrations from a Population Study

Abstract: 

With the aging of the US population, Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and other dementias are a growing clinical, public health problem, and societal challenge with no cure on the horizon. Efforts to develop both effective treatments and preventive strategies must proceed in parallel. Population-based cohort studies reduce selection bias and provide the opportunity to identify modifiable risk factors for dementia. The Monongahela- Youghiogheny Healthy Aging Team (MYHAT) is an epidemiologic study cohort in southwestern PA in whom we have been collecting data since 2006. This presentation will highlight some biostatistical approaches that have been the key to making the best use of these data, and also illustrate the importance of successful collaboration.

Dr. Ganguli will provide some background on the clinical and public health context of the work. Dr. Chang will discuss three fundamental statistical concepts: competing risks modeling, dual trajectory modeling, and estimating the effect of a modifiable risk factor on incident dementia. For each of these topics, she will explain two aspects and demonstrate their appropriate use. Specifically, she will highlight how the proper application of these approaches can impact research findings.