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 should a 95% confidence interval be interpreted?
A 95% confidence interval (CI) means that if the study were repeated multiple times, 95% of the calculated CIs would contain the true effect size.
While this is a statistical approximation, it serves as a useful guide for assessing result reliability.
Reference:
Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. (2011). 12.4.1 Confidence intervals. The Cochrane Collaboration. Retrieved from
https://handbook-5-1.cochrane.org/chapter_12/12_4_1_confidence_intervals.htm