Introduction of meta-analysis: What, why and who

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2000

Abstract

Meta-analysis is a method of review that summarises the results of previous research of the same particular issue in a systematic and quantitative way. A meta-analysis that properly combines results from different studies will average out differences caused by random variation and produce a more precise estimate of the true effect. It may also detect and investigate heterogeneity among studies thus providing a deeper understanding of clinical dilemmas and guidance on resolving them.in this way a meta-analysis will be a better guide to practice than an individual study. Meta-analysis also has its limitations as it is largely dependent on the quality of published data and requires careful planning and execution of a valid protocol, together with cautious interpretation of the results.

Keywords

Quantitative review, critical appraisal, overall effect, publication bias

Publication Title

Journal of the University of Malaya Medical Centre (JUMMEC)

ISSN

1823-7339

Divisions

fac_med

Volume

5

Issue

2

Publisher

Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya

Additional Information

DH

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