It is possible to conduct a meta-analysis using only Microsoft Excel. We have also developed a second spreadsheet capable of producing customized forest plots. We constructed a step-by-step guide to perform a meta-analysis in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, using either fixed-effect or random-effects models. Analyses can be conducted using Microsoft Excel, but there was no previous guide available. Most available softwares have limitations in dealing with descriptive data, and the graphical display of summary statistics such as incidence and prevalence is unsatisfactory. Commercial specialist software is available, but may be expensive and focused in a particular type of primary data.
General purpose statistical packages can meta-analyze data, but usually require external macros or coding. Meta-analyses are necessary to synthesize data obtained from primary research, and in many situations reviews of observational studies are the only available alternative.
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