Input Parameter Generator Interfaces

Collaboration between CISNET members on various joint simulation projects have lead to the creation of a number of pre-processors which generate simulation model parameters from raw data sets. These parameter generators are “mini models” in themselves in that they involve input data, processing guided by assumptions, and produce results. While the results from these input parameter generators are not the goal of a given joint simulation, these mini-models are used to ensure all collaborators are operating from the same base set of assumptions with respect certain input parameters.

An example of this sort of generator is the Mammography Dissemination Generator used for the CISNET Breast Base-Case. In this generator, two distinct statistical modeling efforts were performed and combined through simulation to generate screening life histories for women. Cross-sectional survey data from the National Health Interview Survey was used to estimate the cumulative distribution for the time to first mammography. Longitudinal data from the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium was used to model repeat screening behavior; the two pieces are combined in the simulation program to generate screening exam histories for women. Note that the simulation does not model diagnosis of cancer or death, so the user of generated data must truncate the screening history at the time of diagnosis or death.

Parameter Generators

For purposes of generating common parameters for the larger CISNET simulation models, a series of smaller, focused models was created in collaboration between the CISNET consortium members and NCI. Also see Model Profiles.

See additional input parameters for breast cancer (Age-specific Incidence in the Absence of Screening).