dopafc.blogg.se

However, it may not always be the best tool, and is controversial. Meta-analysis can be a powerful tool when it is well designed and performed appropriately. Thus, the use of meta-analysis is becoming increasingly popular. Meta-analysis is based on mathematical and statistical rules therefore, it is more objective than other methods, such as narrative reviews, and is less influenced by the author’s personal opinions. Thus, meta-analysis provides a more precise estimate of the effect. A meta-analysis increases the sample size, and consequently, the power to study the effects of interest by combining primary studies while considering the sizes of the studies included. The word “meta” comes from Greek and means “after” or “beyond,” with meta-analysis meaning an “analysis of analyses”. Meta-analysis is a statistical method that combines and synthesizes different studies and integrates their results into a single conclusion.

Keywords: Meta-analysis Data analysis Bias The aim of this review is to describe and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of meta-analysis. Although meta-analysis has been criticized due to its limitations, there are solutions to such problems.

Moreover, meta-analysis has several shortcomings, and in some cases, it may not be appropriate. However, this method is controversial and may not always be the best tool. The systematic approach and transparency in meta-analysis help to resolve conflicts and uncertainties between studies, while leading to significant conclusions. The biases of narrative reviews can be limited or overcome by conducting a meta-analysis. In a meta-analysis, the decisions are transparent, and statistical analysis yields an objective measure of the integrated quantitative evidence. Data synthesized from meta-analyses are usually more beneficial than the results of narrative reviews. Meta-analysis increases the sample size, and in turn, the power to study the effects of interest by combining primary studies and providing a precise estimate of the effects. Meta-analysis is a statistical method that combines and synthesizes multiple studies and integrates their results.