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Language bias in orthodontic systematic reviews: A meta-epidemiological study
Samer Mheissen1, Loukia M Spineli2, Baraa Daraqel3,4
1Specialist Orthodontist in Private Practice, Syria- Damascus, Syria.
Plos One
|April 1, 2024
Summary
Language bias in orthodontic systematic reviews (SRs) can impact findings. Including non-English studies is recommended to avoid bias, though their quality may vary.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Evidence-based dentistry
- Research methodology
Background:
- Orthodontic systematic reviews (SRs) often prioritize English-language studies, potentially introducing language bias.
- This study investigates the impact of including non-English studies on the results of orthodontic SRs.
Approach:
- A meta-epidemiological study analyzed 174 orthodontic SRs published between 2017 and 2021.
- Statistical methods, including multivariable logistic regression and random-effects meta-analysis, were used to assess the influence of non-English studies.
Key Points:
- Approximately 26% of analyzed SRs included non-English studies.
- Language restrictions significantly reduced the likelihood of including non-English studies (OR: 0.11).
- While non-English studies showed a trend towards overestimating summary effect sizes, this was not statistically significant (ΔSMD = -0.29).
Conclusions:
- Language bias can affect orthodontic SR outcomes.
- Researchers should avoid language restrictions in SRs and consider sensitivity analyses to evaluate language impact.
- Non-English studies, while potentially lower in quality, should be included to ensure comprehensive and unbiased systematic reviews.
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