Why are systematic reviews considered to be at the top of the evidence pyramid?

Systematic reviews are regarded as the pinnacle of the evidence pyramid primarily because they synthesize findings from multiple high-quality studies, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of a particular research question. By integrating data from various studies, systematic reviews can provide a broader overview and enhance the overall validity and reliability of the findings. This process also helps to identify patterns, discrepancies, and consensus in the research, which can overcome the limitations that individual studies may present.

In contrast, expert opinions alone lack empirical support and systematic reviews are not merely summaries of single studies; they are comprehensive evaluations that go beyond individual findings. Additionally, conducting a systematic review involves meticulous methodology and is generally more complex than carrying out a single study, which is why the assertion that they are easier to conduct does not hold true. As a result, systematic reviews are invaluable for evidence-based practice, helping practitioners make informed decisions based on pooled and critically assessed evidence.