Table 1.

Why guidelines exist: the guidelines paradox

Optimistic view	vs	Pessimistic view
Our guidelines are based on strong evidence	vs	If you have good evidence, you do not need a guideline (because the evidence speaks for itself)
Our guidelines help doctors to offer the best modern treatments to their patients	vs	Guidelines help societies maintain their status, and to compete with other organizations for funding
We issue guidelines as a service to the profession and humanity	vs	Guidelines are issued for a self-serving purpose
Our guidelines are popular because of their scientific quality	vs	Guidelines are popular when they have marketing appeal

Adapted and modified from a presentation made by Eam [38] with permission from the author