An example of using mixed models and proc mixed for longitudinal data

Longitudinal data, or data that are repeated measurements on various subjects across time, are commonplace in biostatistical studies. The general linear mixed model is a useful statistical tool for analyzing such data and drawing meaningful inferences about them. This paper discusses some of the most common mixed models and fits them to a prototypical example involving repeated measures on blood pressure. Computer implementation is via the MIXED procedure in the SAS System, and code descriptions and output interpretations accompany the example.