Questionable robustness in the findings of a meta-analysis

Abstract

Marchand and colleagues conducted a meta-analysis examining COVID vaccine effects on all-cause and cardiac-related mortality. Findings aligned with previous research, showing no association with all-cause mortality. However, cardiac-related mortality exhibited a 6% increase post-vaccination. Concerns arise from reliance on a non-peer-reviewed study (Ladapo, 2022) influencing results significantly. Sensitivity analyses were lacking, undermining result robustness, particularly in gender-specific outcomes. Adherence to PRISMA guidelines for transparency and thoroughness could strengthen conclusions. This study underscores vaccine safety scrutiny, yet the influence of biased sources and absence of sensitivity testing warrant careful consideration.

Keywords

• meta-analysis
• all-cause mortality
• cardiac-related mortality
• covid vaccines
• covid-19