Glossary · Method
Meta-analysis
A statistical synthesis of multiple RCTs on the same question. Higher tier of evidence than any single trial.
Plain language
A statistical summary of all the trials on a question, not just one. The cleanest evidence we cite. If a meta-analysis disagrees with the marketing claim, the marketing claim loses.
Definition
A meta-analysis is a quantitative synthesis of multiple independent studies (typically RCTs) on the same intervention and outcome, computing a pooled effect size with confidence intervals. When properly conducted, it weighs studies by precision and reveals whether the literature converges on a benefit or is mixed. Cochrane reviews are the most rigorous form of meta-analysis.