Publication bias refers to the phenomenon where studies with positive or significant results are more likely to be published than studies with null or negative results. This bias can lead to an overestimation of the effectiveness of interventions or the strength of associations, as well as a skewed representation of research findings in the scientific literature. Publication bias can occur at various stages of the research process, including during the selection of research topics, the design of studies, the analysis and interpretation of results, and the publication and dissemination of findings. Efforts to reduce publication bias include promoting the publication of all research findings, regardless of their results, and conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses to assess the true extent of bias in the literature.