Evidence & research

Meta-analysis

Also known as: systematic review

A study that statistically pools the results of multiple prior studies to produce a combined estimate.

In plain terms

A meta-analysis inherits the quality of what it pools. Combining twelve small, biased, unblinded trials produces a precise-looking estimate of a biased effect. The confidence interval narrows; the bias does not.

Guides that use this term

Muscle loss on GLP-1s: what the evidence shows

A 2026 meta-analysis found lean mass falls in absolute terms on GLP-1 drugs while rising as a proportion of body weight. Both statements are true, and they explain the entire argument.

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