What type of evidence is referred to as the "platinum standard" in scientific research?

The term "platinum standard" in scientific research is often associated with systematic reviews, which are recognized for their rigorous methodology and comprehensive analysis of existing studies on a specific topic. Systematic reviews synthesize findings from multiple studies to provide overarching conclusions that enhance understanding and guide practice or policy decisions.

By employing predefined, transparent methods for selecting and analyzing research, systematic reviews minimize bias and consider the entirety of available evidence. This comprehensive approach is critical in fields like dental hygiene, where evidence-based practices are essential for developing clinical guidelines and interventions.

In contrast, while meta-analyses conduct statistical analyses to quantify results from various studies, they depend heavily on the quality of the studies included and are thus seen as a component of a systematic review rather than a standalone "standard." Primary studies are valuable for generating new data but lack the overarching synthesis that a systematic review provides. Cohort studies contribute to the body of evidence but do not offer the comprehensive overview necessary to be considered a "platinum standard."