Latent class model characterization of neighborhood socioeconomic status.

TitleLatent class model characterization of neighborhood socioeconomic status.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsPalumbo, Aimee, Yvonne Michael, and Terry Hyslop
JournalCancer Causes Control
Volume27
Issue3
Pagination445-52
Date Published2016 Mar
ISSN1573-7225
KeywordsAdult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Breast Neoplasms, Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Prognosis, Racial Groups, Residence Characteristics, Social Class, Young Adult
Abstract

PURPOSE: Neighborhood-level socioeconomic status (NSES) can influence breast cancer mortality and poorer health outcomes are observed in deprived neighborhoods. Commonly used NSES indexes are difficult to interpret. Latent class models allow for alternative characterization of NSES for use in studies of cancer causes and control.METHODS: Breast cancer data was from a cohort of women diagnosed at an academic medical center in Philadelphia, PA. NSES variables were defined using Census data. Latent class modeling was used to characterize NSES.RESULTS: Complete data was available for 1,664 breast cancer patients diagnosed between 1994 and 2002. Two separate latent variables, each with 2-classes (LC2) best represented NSES. LC2 demonstrated strong associations with race and tumor stage and size.CONCLUSIONS: Latent variable models identified specific characteristics associated with advantaged or disadvantaged neighborhoods, potentially improving our understanding of the impact of socioeconomic influence on breast cancer prognosis. Improved classification will enhance our ability to identify vulnerable populations and prioritize the targeting of cancer control efforts.

DOI10.1007/s10552-015-0711-4
Alternate JournalCancer Causes Control
Original PublicationLatent class model characterization of neighborhood socioeconomic status.
PubMed ID26797452
PubMed Central IDPMC4763341
Grant ListP01 CA142538 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
Project: