In systematic reviews and meta-analyses, the I² statistic is used to measure:
- A Publication bias across included studies
- B The statistical power of the pooled estimate
- C The proportion of total variability in study estimates due to heterogeneity ✓
- D The quality score of individual included studies
Correct answer: C. The proportion of total variability in study estimates due to heterogeneity
Explanation
I² quantifies the proportion of observed variance in effect estimates that is attributable to true between-study heterogeneity rather than chance; values of 0–30%, 30–60%, and >60% represent low, moderate, and high heterogeneity respectively. Publication bias is assessed by funnel plots and Egger's test. Quality is assessed using tools like Cochrane Risk of Bias.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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