Background: Prognosis studies are abundant in medical literature. Hence, systematic reviews of these studies are increasingly required and conducted to identify and critically appraise the existing evidence. A Cochrane handbook for prognosis reviews is currently being prepared describing guidance for conducting a systematic review of prognosis studies. The CHARMS tool is developed to provide guidance for design and conduct of the first steps of systematic reviews of prognosis studies. CHARMS can assist reviewers of prognosis studies in defining the review objectives and design of the review and creating the data extraction list to enhance critical appraisal of the primary studies.

Objectives: This workshop will introduce participants to the Cochrane Handbook for Reviews of Prognosis Studies, the types of prognosis research, and explain the differences between prognosis and intervention studies. We will provide guidance on how to define a proper review question and how to design a protocol and data extraction form to enhance subsequent critical appraisal.

Description: The workshop will start with an introduction to the different types of prognosis studies and to systematic reviews of prognosis studies. We subsequently discuss the key items important for framing a review question, the essentials of a protocol, and data extraction using the CHARMS checklist. The workshop will consist of interactive lectures and small group exercises.