Jadad scale

Jadad scale is a procedure used to independently assess the methodological quality of a clinical trial. It is named after its creator, Alejandro Jadad. The scale is also known as the Oxford quality scoring system or the Jadad scoring system. It is a tool to assess the quality of randomized controlled trials.

Overview

The Jadad scale is a five-point scale that assesses three aspects of a clinical trial: the method of randomization, the double-blinding process, and the description of withdrawals and dropouts. A score of 0 (lowest) to 5 (highest) is assigned, with a higher score indicating better reporting.

Scoring

The scoring system is as follows:

• Was the study described as randomized (this includes words such as randomly, random, and randomization)? (0/1)
• Was the study described as double blind? (0/1)
• Was there a description of withdrawals and dropouts? (0/1)
• Deduct one point if the method used to generate the sequence of randomization was described and it was inappropriate (i.e., numbers or dates of birth).
• Deduct one point if the study was described as double blind but the method was inappropriate (i.e., comparing tablet vs. injection with no double dummy).

Criticism

The Jadad scale has been criticized for its overemphasis on reporting rather than on methodological quality. It has also been suggested that the scale's simplicity may not capture the complexity of trial quality.

See also

• Randomized controlled trial
• Clinical trial
• Evidence-based medicine

References

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