Why are Hierarchical Models Important in Epidemiology?
Hierarchical models offer several advantages in the field of epidemiology: 1. Accommodate Nested Data: They handle the nested structure of epidemiological data, allowing for more accurate inferences. 2. Borrow Strength: They can "borrow strength" across groups, improving estimates, especially in smaller subgroups. 3. Random Effects: These models include random effects to account for variability at multiple levels, which can lead to better understanding of the influence of both individual and group-level variables. 4. Complex Relationships: They can model complex relationships and interactions between different levels of data.
