Epidemiology/Biostatistics

The Epidemiology/Biostatistics Working Group has two major objectives: (1) to lead and support investigations in population sciences relevant to the CCSS, such as mortality, cost-effectiveness, characterization of primary treatment exposures (including temporal changes), and minority populations; and (2) to encourage and support methodological research associated with enhancing the follow-up and evaluation of the CCSS cohort. This includes developing innovative epidemiological and biostatistical methods and applying state-of-the-art methodologies. This Working Group collaborates closely with all the other Working Groups, being responsible for the integrity of the overall study methodology.

Sample Research Areas:

• Collaboration with the CCSS Genetics Working Group in the analyses of SNP array and whole genome and whole exome sequencing data to evaluate genetic susceptibility to a variety of non-malignant late effects, including gene main effects and gene by treatment/environment interactions.
  
• Evaluation of disparities in late effects among underrepresented and underserved subgroups, including studies utilizing database linkages (e.g., Medicaid database) and environmental/social small-area data using GIS.
  
• Development and application of state-of-the-art statistical methodologies, especially for prediction modeling using machine/statistical learning methods and for cost-effectiveness evaluation of intervention/screening strategies for survivorship care.
  
• Development of innovative population-science methodologies relevant to childhood cancer survivors, including those related to longitudinal aging research.