This course introduces the principles of systematic reviews and meta-analysis, with a focus on the potentials and limitations of this study design, including the problematic, massive rise of such analyses in the literature. The identification and exploration of between-study heterogeneity and of sources of bias, and the issues arising in meta-analysis of observational studies will be covered.

The format of the course includes lectures and the critical appraisal of published meta-analyses in groups. Hands-on practicals in R cover basic meta-analysis and meta-regression. The course is based on the third edition of the book Systematic Reviews in Health Research: Meta-Analysis in Context (John Wiley & Sons, 2022, DOI:10.1002/9781119099369), but students do not need to purchase the book.

After successful completion of this course, students will have gained an understanding of the potential and limitations of systematic reviews and meta-analysis and be able to conduct their own, simple analyses.

Objectives

• Understand the key concepts, strengths, and limitations of systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

• Identify and address sources of heterogeneity and bias in research synthesis.

• Gain practical experience in conducting and interpreting meta-analyses using R.

Participant profile

This course is primarily intended for health researchers, but it is also a valuable resource for practitioners, students, and instructors in the health sciences who need to understand and apply research synthesis methods. Participants are expected to have a basic understanding of epidemiology and statistics. Familiarity with R is helpful but not required, as introductory support will be provided.

Assessment