Various biases in systematic review and meta-analysis and their assessment.

Abstract

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses synthesise existing evidence for clinical and scientific decision-making. Clinicians and researchers need to understand how to interpret the evidence with the bias involved, as well as the various available tools and how to use them when performing a systematic review. The validity of systematic reviews and meta-analyses depends on comprehensive assessment and mitigation of biases. Biases have the potential to compromise the validity and reliability of results. By being aware of and addressing these different biases, researchers and clinicians can more confidently interpret findings and increase the impact and dependability of their conclusions. The article discusses the biases involved in systematic reviews and meta-analyses and various ways to assess them.