To effectively implement the PRISMA guidelines in epidemiological research, researchers should follow these steps:
1. Plan and Register the Review: Before starting, develop a protocol and register it in a database like PROSPERO to ensure transparency and avoid duplication. 2. Conduct a Comprehensive Search: Use multiple databases and consider grey literature to capture all relevant studies. 3. Screen and Select Studies: Apply predefined eligibility criteria to include studies that meet the review’s objectives. 4. Extract Data Systematically: Use standardized forms to collect data consistently. 5. Assess Risk of Bias: Evaluate the included studies for potential biases using validated tools. 6. Synthesize Findings: Use appropriate statistical methods for meta-analysis or qualitative synthesis if a meta-analysis is not feasible. 7. Report According to PRISMA: Ensure that all sections of the PRISMA checklist are addressed in the manuscript.
