This practical guide to systematic reviews clearly describes and explains the methods to systematically identify relevant research, appraise its quality, and synthesize the results. As well as illustrative examples, there are exercises for each of the sections. This is essential reading for those interested in synthesizing health care research.

Introduction; Part I. General Methods: 1. The question; 2. Finding relevant studies; 3. Appraising and selecting studies; 4. Summarising and synthesising the studies; 5. Applicability: returning to the question; Part II. Question-Specific Methods: 6. Interventions; 7. Frequency and rate; 8. Diagnostic tests; 9. Aetiology and risk factors; 10. Prediction: prognosis and risk; Appendix A. Literature searching methods; Appendix B. Software for meta-analysis; Glossary; Acronyms and abbreviations; References; Index.

'... the book serves as an excellently readable introduction to the whole subject of literature reviewing ... Systematic Reviews in Health Care provides a readable, concise description of the methodologies, limitations and strengths of systematic reviews without excessive detail but greater depth than standard How to do EBM texts.' Doctors.net'... a very practical book for those interested in undertaking a systematic review in health case, more orientated towards health care professionals, but is a useful introduction to the subject for statisticians.' Statistical Methods in Medical Research"This book is well designed for people who are looking for an introduction to the field of systematic reviews. This is a worthy addition to the practice of evidence-based medicine." Doody's Notes"The book serves as an excellently readable introduction to the whole subject of formal literature reviewing." Doctors.net"This stands as a strong competitor in the growing list of available resources that lead the reader through the systematic review process...an excellent resource..." Teaching and learning in Medicine"[Systematic Reviews in Health Care: A Practical Guide]...is very well written and extremely easy to read. It is a true practical guide through the maze of clinical studies. Complex issues are presented in a clear, concise, logical, and easy-to-follow manner...I believe this book should be essential reading for all practicing clinicians and should be prominently displayed in every medical library." Southern Medical Journal