Analysis of cyclic recurrent event data with multiple event types.

Abstract

Recurrent event data frequently arise in practice, and in some cases, the event process has cyclic or periodic components. We propose a semiparametric rate model with multiple event types that have such features. Generalized estimating equations are used for the estimation of regression coefficients after profiling the baseline rate function with a fully nonparametric estimator. The proposed estimators are shown to be consistent and asymptotically Gaussian. Their finite-sample behavior is assessed through simulation experiments. The predictability of the model with and without the cyclic component is also compared. With the cyclic component, our model improves the predictability of a conventional model without the cyclic feature. Data on recurrent fire alarms in Blenheim, New Zealand, are used for illustration purposes.