Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis

Meta-Analysis

UBC is a world leader in complex meta-analyses for evidence-based decision-making in health care. Our company offers leading scientific, medical, and statistical expertise to perform meta-analysis for evidence-based decision-making. In a systematic review, data are synthesized qualitatively or quantitatively.

A quantitative review – known as a meta-analysis – is a statistical pooling of data from multiple clinical trials that adjusts for between- and within-study differences. Meta-analysis is built upon sound scientific protocols, documented MetaWorks^® Methods, and the statistical analysis principles developed by meta-analytical pioneer Dr. Thomas Chalmers. A meta-analysis can:

• Strengthen the precision of scientific knowledge by reducing the effect of bias inherent in any one study and reducing the play of random chance (i.e., confidence intervals narrow)
• Examine a scientific question no single study can address
• Inform practice guidelines and individual treatment decisions
• Provide scientifically rigorous information to guide future research

UBC scientists use proven scientific methodology to conduct statistical analyses of quantitative data from multiple trials, individual patient databases, electronic medical records, and other data sources. Newly acquired trial data are factored in as they become available. A cumulative meta-analysis is the most thorough of its kind.