Table 5:

Study Quality Assessment

Criterion	Mean	SD
1. Was the research question/hypothesis clearly stated?	0.77	0.97
2. Were the inclusion and exclusion criteria clearly stated?	0.44	1.77
3. Was a clear aim for the study stated?	0.33	1.88
4. Were the methods of the study clearly described?	0.00	2.00
5. Were the main findings (results) of the study clearly described?	0.33	1.88
6. Were study limitations discussed?	0.50	1.66
7. Were physical activity recommendations in line with AICR/ACS guidelines?	1.05	0.88
8. Was a sample size justification via power analysis provided?	1.05	1.11
9. Are data analyses discussed?	0.44	1.77

Two authors of the review, S. Crowder and A. Buro independently scored each study based on these criteria, with disagreement resolved through discussion. Scores for each criterion range from 0 to 2, depending on whether the criterion was unmentioned or unmet (0), partially met (1), or completely met (2). The possible total study score ranges between 0 and 18. Higher total scores represent better quality. Study quality score assisted in the measure of the strength of study evidence; therefore, the purpose was not to exclude studies but rather to help the researchers gain a deeper understanding of each one.