Authoritative Cochrane methodology for systematic reviews of prognosis research The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Prognosis Research and Prediction Models brings together existing and emerging guidance for conducting each of three types of prognosis review: overall prognosisprognostic factorsprediction modelsFor each type, the handbook provides a step-by-step guide for the entire review process from defining the review question and developing the protocol to search strategies, data extraction, risk of bias and applicability assessments, meta-analysis, summary of findings and reporting. Novel topics are also addressed, including prognosis review updates, and individual participant data meta-analysis. Across 17 chapters written and edited by leaders in the field, this is the first handbook dedicated solely to reviews of prognosis and prediction models, which require specialized methods distinct from reviews of therapeutic interventions and diagnostic test accuracy. Intended for a broad audience, the handbook equips interdisciplinary teams with the methodology and best practice needed to plan, conduct, and report rigorous prognosis and prediction model reviews to inform healthcare and policy. Readers will also benefit from a clear introduction to the different types of prognosis research, including the aims, designs, analysis approaches and statistical measures used within primary studies, to ensure a solid foundation for embarking on systematic reviews in this specialist area.
