Development of the standards reporting of neurological disorders (STROND) checklist: A guideline for the reporting of incidence and prevalence studies in neuroepidemiology.

Abstract : Background: Incidence and prevalence studies of neurological disorders can play an important role in assessing the burden of disease. However, the assessment of disease estimates is hindered by problems in reporting of such studies. Despite a growth in published reports, existing guidelines relate to analytical rather than descriptive epidemiological studies. There are also no user- friendly tools (e.g., checklist) available for authors, editors and peer-reviewers to facilitate reporting of descriptive epidemiological studies for neurological disorders. Objective: The Standards of Reporting of Neurological Disorders (STROND) is a guideline that consists of recommendations and a checklist to facilitate better reporting of published incidence and prevalence studies of neurological disorders. Methods: A review of previously developed guidance was used to produce a list of items required for incidence and prevalence studies in neurology. A three-round Delphi technique was used to identify the ‘basic minimum items’ important for reporting, as well as some additional ‘ideal reporting items’. An e-consultation process was also used in order gauge opinion by external neuroepidemiological experts on the appropriateness of the items included in the checklist. Findings: Out of 38 candidate items, 15 items and accompanying recommendations were developed along with a user-friendly checklist. Conclusions: We hope that the introduction and use of the STROND checklist will lead to more consistent, transparent and contextualised reporting of neuro-epidemiological studies and that these more applicable findings will lead ultimately to better healthcare decisions.