We present three considerations in analysing the association between weight and mortality, as well as other relations that might be non-linear in nature. First, authors must graphically plot their independent and dependent variables in a continuous manner. Second, authors should assess the shape of that relation, and note its shape. If it is non-linear, and specifically, J-shaped or U-shaped, careful consideration should be given to using the 'best' statistical model, of which multivariate fractional polynomial regression is a reasonable choice. Authors should also refrain from truncating their data to avoid dealing with non-linear relations.
Dr Bhayana is a family physician in London who also works with the London InterCommunity Health Center (LIHC) and the Newcomer Health Project, a Schulich initiative. She graduated from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1985, after which she worked in Toronto for 5 years. She is fluent in English, Hindi and Punjabi, and utilizes all 3 in her community work with recent immigrants and refugees. We met with Dr Bhayana over the phone to hear her thoughts on global health, to understand her involvement with multicultural initiatives and to gather advice for medical students interested in global health.
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