Generalized Estimating Equations

Generalized estimating equations (GEE) provide a comparatively simple approach to dependent Gaussian and non-Gaussian outcomes. In particular, they are commonly used with repeated measures. This technique is appealing when the target of inference is population-averaged (marginal) quantities, such as, for example, the difference in time evolution between two or more groups. Apart from standard GEE, a number of variations to the theme are presented. The technique can be applied to randomized experiments, observational studies, survey data, etc. A clinical trial example and an analysis of data from a developmental toxicity study illustrate the methodology.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

1. I-BioStat, Universiteit Hasselt & KU Leuven, Hasselt, Belgium Geert Molenberghs
2. I-BioStat, KU Leuven & Universiteit Hasselt, Leuven, Belgium Geert Verbeke
3. Selkirk, United Kingdom Michael G. Kenward

1. Geert Molenberghs