How can language bias be mitigated in systematic reviews?

Including studies in multiple languages is an effective strategy for mitigating language bias in systematic reviews. Language bias occurs when the body of evidence reviewed is skewed toward publications in a specific language, often English, which can lead to incomplete or distorted findings. By intentionally sourcing studies published in various languages, researchers can ensure that their systematic review captures a more comprehensive range of data and perspectives. This broader approach reduces the risk of overlooking significant research that might be available in other languages, ultimately leading to more robust and applicable conclusions.

In contrast, focusing exclusively on English studies or limiting the search to a specific period does not address the diversity of evidence available worldwide and could introduce biases. Limiting studies to large ones may exclude valuable insights from smaller studies, which could contribute important data. Therefore, incorporating studies from a variety of languages is crucial for a balanced and thorough systematic review.