"* Was the study randomized and double-blind (meaning that the researchers themselves were unaware of which subjects comprised the control group and which were the experimental)? Was it a controlled study, meaning that the researchers sought to change only one variable, and keep other possible variables consistent?
* What were the demographics of the people involved? Were both men and women included? What ages were they? How were they selected to participate in the study? Was the sample of subjects truly random or not? For example, in a survey, people are often self-selected-meaning that they opted to participate. Another issue is that when researchers survey participants for results, the subjects often under-report "negative" and over-report "positive" behavior. So when surveyed, people almost always underestimate the number of calories they consume, for example, and overestimate how active they are.
* Was it an animal or human study? The results of an animal study can suggest what may happen in humans, but the study is never considered conclusive. To know how something will affect people, well, you have to try it out on people.
* Was the study conducted by a major university or hospital? Was it a truly independent study, or was it underwritten in whole or in part by a corporation or association that may have a vested interest in the results of the research (for example, a bottled-water supplier supporting a study on how much water is needed for optimal health)?
* Did the results confirm or agree with existing research, or were the results surprising? Why? What makes it different or similar to other research in the field? Is it a truly groundbreaking study or something that basically repeats earlier research?"
Source: James-Enger, K. (2010, 10). How to find and evaluate research. The Writer, 123, 40-41. https://kean.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/magazines/how-find-evaluate-research/docview/751176758/se-2
Source: Urschel, J. D. (2005). How To Analyze an Article. World Journal of Surgery, 29(5), 557-60. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-005-7912-z
A video detailing how to evaluate health research. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXlegXFVdDY)
A step-by-step process and explanation for how to read medical research papers. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvQJEqjz5K4 )
