Bayesian test for the differences of survival functions in multiple groups

Abstract

This paper proposes a Bayesian test for the equivalence of survival functions in multiple groups. Proposed Bayesian test use the model of Cox's regression with time-varying coefficients. B-spline expansions are used for the time-varying coefficients, and the proposed test use only the partial likelihood, which provides easier computations. Various simulations of the proposed test and typical tests such as log-rank and Fleming and Harrington tests were conducted. This result shows that the proposed test is consistent as data size increase. Specifically, the power of the proposed test is high despite the existence of crossing hazards. The proposed test is based on a Bayesian approach, which is more flexible when used in multiple tests. The proposed test can therefore perform various tests simultaneously. Real data analysis of Larynx Cancer Data was conducted to assess applicability.