What is a systematic review?

A systematic review is defined as a structured synthesis of research that addresses a specific question. This process involves a comprehensive and methodical approach to identifying, evaluating, and integrating findings from multiple studies related to a particular research question or topic. The primary goal of a systematic review is to summarize the available evidence in a transparent and reproducible manner, allowing researchers and practitioners to make informed decisions based on the collective results of high-quality studies.

This type of review typically follows a predefined protocol that includes clearly defined criteria for inclusion and exclusion of studies, comprehensive literature searching strategies, and rigorous assessment of the quality of the included studies. By synthesizing data from various studies, systematic reviews aim to provide a higher level of evidence by identifying patterns, discrepancies, and overall trends in the available research. This approach is particularly valuable in fields such as healthcare and social sciences, where consolidating findings can lead to better clinical and policy decisions.