A Guide to Performing Systematic Reviews of Health and Disease

Abstract

This practical guide to performing systematic reviews in a healthcare context provides a step-by-step approach for students and health professionals. Using free, opensource software to extract data and perform the necessary meta-analyses, this guide navigates the process of reviews, from study design and randomised controlled trials to interpreting results and reporting your findings.

Each chapter includes an overview, learning outcomes and practice questions. Aimed particularly at those who do not have an extensive statistical background, it will help enable you to confidently perform high quality systematic reviews.

Praise for A Guide to Performing Systematic Reviews of Health and Disease 'An understanding of how treatment options are assessed and compared has never been more important for those involved in the healthcare Industry. Professor Gurusamy is a leading figure in the field of Evidence-based Healthcare and has delivered seminal systematic reviews for the Cochrane collaboration, the global leader analysing evidence base in healthcare, whilst teaching and training the next generation in systematic review methodology. With years of teaching experience Professor Gurusamy takes us through the basics of study design, an introduction to systematic reviews and how to identify an important research question. This is an essential read and step by step guide to early enthusiasts in systematic review.' Brian R. Davidson, Professor of Surgery and Head of Surgical Intervention, Royal Free Hospital

‘This textbook on systematic reviews is an indispensable reference for novice researchers. It is didactically well-constructed, guiding readers step-by-step through essential research techniques, with a particular focus on systematic reviews. The clear explanations and structured approach make complex concepts accessible, ensuring that even beginners can confidently navigate and execute systematic reviews. A must-have resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of research methodologies.' Stefan Bouwense, Oncological Surgeon, Maastricht UMC+