What is the difference between a meta-analysis and a systematic review?

What is the difference between a meta-analysis and a systematic review?

A systematic review is a comprehensive survey of existing literature on a specific topic, while a meta-analysis statistically combines results from multiple studies to provide a more precise estimate of effects.

Can you explain why someone would choose one over the other?

Certainly! A systematic review is ideal for summarizing existing research and identifying gaps, while a meta-analysis is chosen when researchers want to quantitatively synthesize data to draw stronger conclusions.

Are there any specific guidelines for conducting a systematic review?

Yes, there are guidelines like PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) that help ensure transparency and reproducibility in systematic reviews.

What are some common pitfalls in conducting a meta-analysis?

Common pitfalls include publication bias, poor study selection criteria, and not accounting for heterogeneity among studies.