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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Research article

Cochrane plain language summaries are highly heterogeneous with low adherence to the standards

Authors: Antonia Jelicic Kadic, Mahir Fidahic, Milan Vujcic, Frano Saric, Ivana Propadalo, Ivana Marelja, Svjetlana Dosenovic, Livia Puljak

Published in: BMC Medical Research Methodology | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze whether Cochrane plain language summaries (PLSs) adhere to the Standards for the reporting of Plain Language Summaries in new Cochrane Intervention Reviews (PLEACS).

Methods

A systematic analysis of adherence to the measurable PLEACS items was performed for Cochrane PLSs published from March 2013 to the end of January 2015. Duplicate independent data extraction was performed. An adherence score was calculated for each PLS and for the Cochrane Review Groups (CRGs) that published them.

Results

Of the 1738 analyzed PLSs, not a single one adhered fully to the measured PLEACS items. The highest adherence was found for absence of details of the search strategy (99 % adherence), and the lowest adherence for an item mandating to address quality according to the GRADE system (0.7 % adherence). Overall adherence percentage of PLSs reporting reviews with included studies was 57 %. Different CRGs had a wide range of adherence scores.

Conclusions

Cochrane plain language summaries are highly heterogeneous with a low adherence to the PLEACS standards. Therefore, there is much room for improving the content and consistency of the PLS. A standardization of PLSs is necessary to ensure delivery of proper and consistent information for consumers.

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Title: Cochrane plain language summaries are highly heterogeneous with low adherence to the standards
Authors: Antonia Jelicic Kadic
Mahir Fidahic
Milan Vujcic
Frano Saric
Ivana Propadalo
Ivana Marelja
Svjetlana Dosenovic
Livia Puljak
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Medical Research Methodology / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2288
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-016-0162-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Cochrane plain language summaries are highly heterogeneous with low adherence to the standards

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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