What is a meta-analysis?

A meta-analysis refers to a rigorous statistical technique that is used to combine and synthesize the results from multiple independent studies on a similar topic. This approach allows researchers to aggregate data, increase the overall sample size, and achieve a more comprehensive and reliable estimate of effect sizes or outcomes than any single study could provide. By carefully analyzing and weighting the findings of various studies, meta-analysis helps to draw more generalized conclusions about research questions, thereby improving the power and accuracy of the results.

This method is particularly valuable in fields such as healthcare and social sciences, where numerous studies may evaluate similar interventions or phenomena. The ability to statistically analyze pooled data reduces variability and can uncover trends or insights that might not be evident in isolated studies.