Oncologists must utilize living evidence for better patient outcomes

In the fast-paced field of oncology, the need for up-to-date and reliable medical evidence is imperative. As the healthcare landscape evolves, oncologists face increasing time constraints while making critical treatment decisions. This highlights the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which synthesize vast amounts of evidence into comprehensive evaluations of treatment efficacy and safety. As emphasized by Archibald Cochrane, these methods serve as essential safeguards for modern medicine, preventing clinicians from operating in a vacuum of isolated anecdotes and headlines that can mislead. Living evidence represents an innovative approach to decision support in oncology. By combining the rigorous methodology of traditional systematic reviews with the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, this methodology enables healthcare providers to access real-time data. With AI backing, living evidence ensures that oncologists can make informed decisions based on the totality of data rather than relying on limited or outdated studies. As a result, clinicians are better equipped to weigh the risks and benefits of various treatments, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes. Trust is a critical element within the doctor-patient relationship, especially in oncology, where treatment choices can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and longevity. Therefore, it is paramount that oncologists remain well-informed in the face of ever-growing knowledge. A living systematic review can ensure that practitioners have access to the latest, most complete information available, fostering trust not only with their patients but also within the broader medical community. As the future of oncology continues to evolve, the integration of living evidence is essential. This approach not only supports oncologists in making better-informed decisions but also enhances the credibility of the evidence they rely upon. The synergy between human expertise and AI-driven insights will strengthen the evidence hierarchy in oncology and ensure that patients receive the most optimal and scientifically validated treatments.