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 does RevMan report P values in a meta-analysis?
RevMan provides two P values:
- For the summary effect – This is derived from a Z test to determine if there is no effect (or no effect on average in a random-effects model).
- For heterogeneity between studies – This comes from a chi-squared test, assessing whether variations in study results are due to chance (see Cochrane Handbook, Chapter 9, Section 9.5.2).
References:
- Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. (2011). 12.4.2 P values and statistical significance. The Cochrane Collaboration. Retrieved from
https://handbook-5-1.cochrane.org/chapter_12/12_4_2_p_values_and_statistical_significance.htm