What type of evidence does a systematic review typically analyze?

A systematic review is a comprehensive synthesis of research studies that addresses a specific research question by rigorously analyzing a broad range of related studies. This type of evidence encompasses data from multiple research articles, ensuring a thorough assessment of the available literature.

By examining various studies, systematic reviews can identify patterns, discrepancies, and overall trends in the research, leading to conclusions that are more reliable and applicable to practice than those derived from single studies. This method minimizes bias and provides a more balanced perspective on the effectiveness or safety of an intervention, making it a powerful tool for evidence-informed practice.

In contrast, focusing solely on expert opinions, individual study findings, or clinical observations lacks the breadth and depth that systematic reviews offer, which can limit the understanding of the topic in question. Systematic reviews fundamentally aim to consolidate and evaluate a wide array of evidence, enhancing the validity and applicability of their conclusions in healthcare and other fields.