Strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology using mendelian randomisation (STROBE-MR): explanation and elaboration

Abstract

Mendelian randomisation (MR) studies allow a better understanding of the causal effects of modifiable exposures on health outcomes, but the published evidence is often hampered by inadequate reporting. Reporting guidelines help authors effectively communicate all critical information about what was done and what was found. STROBE-MR (strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology using mendelian randomisation) assists authors in reporting their MR research clearly and transparently. Adopting STROBE-MR should help readers, reviewers, and journal editors evaluate the quality of published MR studies. This article explains the 20 items of the STROBE-MR checklist, along with their meaning and rationale, using terms defined in a glossary. Examples of transparent reporting are used for each item to illustrate best practices.

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Affiliated Institutions

• Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa ZA
• Harvard University US
• Northwestern University US
• NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre GB
• Jewish General Hospital CA
• University of Cambridge GB
• King's College London GB
• University of Cape Town ZA
• Centre international de recherche sur le cancer FR
• Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin DE
• Medical Research Council GB
• University College London GB
• University of Bern CH
• MRC Epidemiology Unit GB
• McGill University CA
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology
• University of London GB
• Erasmus MC NL
• Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine CH
• Erasmus University Rotterdam NL
• University of Bristol GB

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