Sex based subgroup differences in randomized controlled trials: empirical evidence from Cochrane meta-analyses.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

 To evaluate the frequency, validity, and relevance of statistically significant (P<0.05) sex-treatment interactions in randomized controlled trials in Cochrane meta-analyses.

Design

 Meta-epidemiological study.

Data sources

 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and PubMed.

Eligibility criteria for study selection

 Reviews published in the CDSR with sex-treatment subgroup analyses in the forest plots, using data from randomized controlled trials.

Data extraction

 Information on the study design and sex subgroup data were extracted from reviews and forest plots that met inclusion criteria. For each statistically significant sex-treatment interaction, the potential for biological plausibility and clinical significance was considered.

SUBMITTER: Wallach JD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5122320 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature