- 作者：Tianjing Li ; Susan Hutfless ; Daniel O. Scharfstein ; Michael J. Daniels ; Joseph W. Hogan ; Roderick J.A. Little ; Jason A. Roy ; Andrew H. Law ; Kay Dickersin
- 关键词：Preventing missing data ; Handling missing data ; Patient-centered outcomes research ; Methodology standards ; Systematic review ; Consensus survey
- 刊名：Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
- 出版年：January, 2014
- 年：2014
- 卷：67
- 期：1
- 页码：15-32
- 全文大小：343 K
Objectives
To recommend methodological standards in the prevention and handling of missing data for primary patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR).Study Design and Setting
We searched National Library of Medicine Bookshelf and Catalog as well as regulatory agencies' and organizations' Web sites in January 2012 for guidance documents that had formal recommendations regarding missing data. We extracted the characteristics of included guidance documents and recommendations. Using a two-round modified Delphi survey, a multidisciplinary panel proposed mandatory standards on the prevention and handling of missing data for PCOR.
Results
We identified 1,790 records and assessed 30 as having relevant recommendations. We proposed 10 standards as mandatory, covering three domains. First, the single best approach is to prospectively prevent missing data occurrence. Second, use of valid statistical methods that properly reflect multiple sources of uncertainty is critical when analyzing missing data. Third, transparent and thorough reporting of missing data allows readers to judge the validity of the findings.
Conclusion
We urge researchers to adopt rigorous methodology and promote good science by applying best practices to the prevention and handling of missing data. Developing guidance on the prevention and handling of missing data for observational studies and studies that use existing records is a priority for future research.