We learned how to convert the pooled odds ratio from a random-effects model and subsequently calculate the number needed to treat (NNT) or harm (NNH). It’s important to understand that without knowing the event proportions in either the treatment or control groups, we cannot accurately estimate the absolute risk reduction for an individual study or for a meta-analysis. Fascinating indeed! Everyday is a school day! 🙌
Here, we have demonstrated three different methods for calculating NNT with meta-analysis data. I learned a lot from this experience, and I hope you find it enjoyable and informative as well. Thank you, @wwrighID, for initiating the discussion and providing a pivotal example by using the highest weight control event proportion to back-calculate ARR and, eventually, NNT. I also want to express my gratitude to @DrToddLee for contributing a brilliant method of pooling a single proportion from the control group for further estimation. Special thanks to @MatthewBJane, the meta-analysis maestro, for guiding me toward the correct equation to calculate event proportions, with weight estimated by the random effect model. 🙏