Editorials - Evidence

Systematic reviews and uncertainties about the effects of treatments

• By: Sir Iain Chalmers
• On: May 12, 2010, 09:00

Keywords:

• Evidence
• Study methodology
• Uncertainties

One of the common criticisms made of The Cochrane Collaboration is that most of its reviews don’t end with clear instructions for action by professionals, patients and policymakers. Since its inception, however, the Collaboration has made it clear that research evidence isn’t everything. Other factors need to be taken into account when people decide what action – if any – is needed when making treatment and policy decisions...