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Meta-analysis is a statistical approach that provides a logical structure and a quantitative methodology for the review, evaluation, and synthesis of information from independent studies. Combining the results of multiple independent studies in a well-conducted meta-analysis provides an objective summary assessment of the overall results of a series of independent studies. With the use of meta-analytic techniques, a series of clinical trials for example, can be summarized, and the overall treatment effect can be estimated with increased precision so that the risks of reaching incorrect conclusions from individual trials are reduced. In this article, we introduce the process of meta-analysis, issues in the conduct of a meta-analysis, and some statistical models that are commonly used to conduct a meta-analysis. Keywords: meta-analysis; overview; research synthesis; fixed-effects models; random-effects models; overall treatment effect; combining information; research review |
