Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis is a method for systematically combining data from multiple studies to make statistical conclusions about a specific research question. As it involves an increased number and a greater diversity of subjects, the conclusions reached through meta-analysis are statistically stronger than the results of a single study. There are many strengths associated with conducting meta-analyses, including increased statistical power, increased accuracy, and reduced uncertainty regarding the conclusions from various individual studies. In addition, the process of conducting a meta-analysis can reveal additional context for understanding the results of individual studies as well as suggest potential questions for future research. For these reasons, a meta-analysis of well-conducted, rigorous studies is considered one of the highest levels of evidence in the literature. Although mathematicians and scientists have ...