The reporting quality of meta-analyses improves: a random sampling study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the overall quality of reporting of meta-analyses (QUOROMs) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) based on the QUOROM statement, to compare the reporting quality of paper-based articles and Cochrane reviews, and to determine whether compliance with the statement improves over time.


METHODS
A random sample of systematic reviews or meta-analyses of RCTs was selected from Medline (2000-2005).


RESULTS
A total of 161 articles were included. The mean QUOROM score was 12.3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.0, 12.6), which rose from 10.5 (95% CI: 8.8, 12.1) in 2000 to 13.0 (95% CI: 12.2, 13.8) in 2005. The mean QUOROM scores of Cochrane reviews and paper-based articles were 14.2 (95% CI: 13.9, 14.5) and 11.7 (95% CI: 11.3, 12.1), respectively. Compared with the paper-based articles, the Cochrane reviews had better reporting quality in the abstract section, while the quality of their trial flows was poor. The fulfillment of most QUOROM items improved with time. A linear relation of the QUOROM score with time was revealed.


CONCLUSIONS
The reporting quality of meta-analyses improves with time. The reporting quality of Cochrane reviews is better compared with paper-based articles. Room still exists for improvements in the reporting quality of both Cochrane and paper-based articles.
Wen
Jin
J
Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Guoxue Xiang 37, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
Ren
Yu
Y
Wang
Li
L
Li
Youping
Y
Liu
Ya
Y
Zhou
Min
M
Liu
Ping
P
Ye
Lu
L
Li
Yi
Y
Tian
Wei
W
D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D011643:Publishing / Q000592:standards; D011786:Quality Control; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / Q000592:standards*; D012196:Review Literature as Topic; D012494:Sampling Studies