title: [Meta-analysis in epidemiology (1): the general characteristics].
abstract: In the present work the general characteristics, aims and applications of meta-analysis in public health are described. The general rules and the relevant steps for the development of this type of studies are considered. These points are illustrated with a number of real examples and the advantages and limitations of the different methodological options are commented.
authors.affiliation: Cátedra de Medicina Preventiva, Facultad de Medicina, Granada.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Delgado Rodríguez
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sillero Arenas
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Gálvez Vargas
mesh_terms: D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011634:Public Health / Q000379:methods
vernacular_title: Metaanálisis en epidemiologia (primera parte): caracteristicas generales.