Level of Evidence Categories

Category Studies Evidence
1 High-quality randomised controlled trials (rCTs) Clear evidence of benefit
2a Some rCTs and/or case studies Evidence of probable benefit – more research needed
2b Some rCTs and/or case studies Evidence of no probable benefit – more research needed
2c High-quality rCTs with conflicting results Conflicting evidence of benefit
3 High-quality rCTs Clear evidence of no benefit
4a Small case studies only Insufficient data
4b No included studies