Systematic Reviews in Intervention Research

Meta-Analysis is the statistical approach to synthesis of the results from a series of studies. During this course we will present and discuss the rational and use of meta-analysis. We will discuss the strengths and limitations, and provide step-by-step guidance on how to perform a meta-analysis based on examples that either has provoked discussion on their logic and methods, or that have challenged conventional beliefs in medicine and biomedical sciences.

Logic and developments on particular approaches (e.g. model selection, individual patient data meta-analyses), and controversies in meta-analysis will be discussed during interactive tutorials (e.g. dealing with heterogeneity and when to refrain from meta-analysis).

Participants will learn how to conduct a meta-analysis. They will get hands-on experience on different aspects of the design and conduct of meta-analysis, including computer practicals using Excel, Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA), STATA and MIX. By the end of the course, participants should be able to conduct a meta-analysis.

• Systematic reviews in general
• Defining a study question and selection criteria
• Identifying studies
• Risk of Bias
• Data-extraction
• Meta-analysis
• Heterogeneity
• Summarising and interpreting results

Our courses are aimed at clinical researchers, nurses, general practitioners, and other health professionals who want to improve their skills in epidemiology, statistics and (clinical) research.

1 week, fulltime (face to face)