Estimation of Finite Population Duration Distributions from Longitudinal Survey Panels with Intermittent Followup

Abstract

We consider survival or duration times associated with spells (sojourns in some state) or events experienced by individuals in a population over a specified time period. Duration distributions can be estimated from data recorded during followup of panel members in longitudinal surveys, but adjustments for the sample design, population structure and losses to followup are typically required. We provided weighted Kaplan-Meier estimates that allow for these features and, in particular, adjust for dependent loss to followup through the use of inverse probability of censoring weights.