What is the goal of a meta-analysis?

The goal of a meta-analysis is to combine results from multiple studies to enhance overall understanding. This approach allows researchers to draw more robust conclusions by synthesizing findings from various studies, which can help increase the statistical power of the results and improve the reliability of the evidence. By aggregating data, meta-analysis can clarify the overall effect of an intervention or exposure, address inconsistencies among individual studies, and identify patterns or trends that may not be apparent from single studies. This is particularly valuable in fields where research findings may vary or when sample sizes in individual studies are limited, as pooling data can lead to more precise estimates of effects and relationships.