Systematic reviews of prognostic studies I: introduction, design and protocol for systematic reviews of prognostic studies

Article type
Authors
Moons K1, Hooft L2, Damen J2, Riley R3, Williams K4, Cochrane Prognosis Methods Group 5
1Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care
2Cochrane Netherlands
3Prognosis Methods Group
4Cochrane Child, Prognosis and Developmental, Psychosocial and Learning Difficulties
5Cochrane
Abstract
Background:
Prognosis studies are abundant in the medical literature. Hence, systematic reviews of these studies are increasingly required and conducted, in order to identify and critically appraise the existing evidence. A tool has recently been developed (the CHARMS tool) to provide guidance on the design and conduct of systematic reviews of prognosis studies. CHARMS can assist prognosis review authors to define the review objectives and design, and to create the data extraction list to enhance critical appraisal of the primary studies.

Objectives:
This workshop will introduce participants to the types of prognosis research and explain the differences between prognosis and intervention studies. We will then provide guidance on how to define a proper review question and how to design your protocol and data extraction form to enhance subsequent critical appraisal. We will illustrate this using empirical examples.

Description:
We discuss the key items important for framing a review question and the essentials of a protocol. The workshop will consist of interactive lectures and small group exercises.