Introduction of agent-based model and an example in medical application

Objective To elaborate the basic theory of agent-based model (ABM), and to promote the application in medical research. Methods We briefly introduced basic concept, implementation step, and software operation of ABM in this review. At the same time, an example related to seasonal influenza epidemic control was used to demonstrate the application of agent-based model in medicine. Results The discontinuous weekend-extension strategies can reduce the overall disease attack rate of seasonal flu. Particularly, continuous extension adequately reduce the epidemic and control the spread of disease. Conclusions ABM provides a new option to solve complex medical problems, and can be used as a complement to the traditional modeling methods.