Common statistical errors in systematic reviews: What to look for and how to spot them

Article type
Authors
McKenzie J1, Herbison P2, Trivella M3, Beller E4, Lewis S5, Worthington H6, Cates C7
1School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University Australia
2University of Otago, New Zealand
3UK Cochrane Centre, United Kingdom
4Centre for Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Bond University, Australia
5Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK
6Cochrane Oral Health Group, School of Dentistry, University of Manchester, UK
7Population Health, St George’s University of London, UK
Abstract
Objective:

To provide Co-ordinating and Managing Editors of Cochrane Review Groups and review authors with an overview of common statistical errors in systematic reviews, what to look for, and how to spot them.

Description:

In this workshop we will cover statistical and interpretational errors that commonly occur in systematic reviews. Topics covered will include issues surrounding outcomes, meta-analytic models (fixed effect versus random effects), non-standard designs, risk of bias, selective reporting, and interpretation of results. Suggestions of how potential errors may be detected will be provided along with examples. We will also discuss how some errors may be avoided through consideration of the issues when developing review protocols. The workshop will include a mix of taught content and discussion.