Mean and Mean difference are the two key statistical measures used in the statistical analysis. Both are essential for meta-analysis as well. Mean and Mean difference are used for the interpretation of a large set of values into a single number which explains the heterogeneity and variation among the individual values. However, one of a common challenge in meta-analysis is the unavailability of this data (mean and standard deviation).
Q & A Forum
Meta Analysis
Q: How can SD be estimated when only the range is available but without minimum and maximum values?
If a study provides the range but does not specify minimum and maximum values, the formula used in Sub-circumstance 3.1 (Formula 10) can be applied. However, since the mean cannot be directly estimated in this case, the median is assumed to be the mean when data distribution is normal.
