This workshop is given on behalf of the Statistical Methods Group.

Workshop type: Training.

Objective: To provide an overview of statistical and methodological issues in meta-analysis.

Summary:
An understanding of the basic principles of the meta-analytic statistical methods commonly used in systematic reviews is critical for proper interpretation of synthesized research evidence. In this workshop, we will discuss various meta-analytical statistical methods including: the rationale for using meta-analysis to combine study results; the choice of measure of treatment effect (e.g., odds ratio, relative risk, risk difference, mean difference, standardized mean difference); modeling strategies and basic methods for combining measures of treatment effect from studies; testing and quantifying heterogeneity; and choice of fixed versus random effect models. The workshop will also discuss approaches for identifying sources of heterogeneity and how to deal with heterogeneity. Meta-regression will be introduced briefly, and other methodological issues, such as publication bias, will be discussed.

Intended audience: Anyone (understanding of basic statistical concepts, such as confidence intervals, p-values, etc., will be assumed).

Technical level expected of participants: Basic/Intermediate.