ACE Framework
ACE is a structured, rule-based framework for classifying the credibility of pooled observational exposure-outcome associations in umbrella reviews, including risk factors, prognostic factors, biomarkers and other exposures. It assesses six domains: D1 Temporality, D2 Strength, D3 Consistency, D4 Dose-response, D5 Review methodological quality and D6 Small-study effects/publication bias. Each association is assigned one of four final classes: Strong, Moderate, Limited or Inconclusive.
ACE classifies the credibility of an association. It does not assess causality, clinical importance or predictive accuracy.
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Status
ACE v1.0 is frozen and is undergoing independent evaluation of its reliability and usability.
How to cite
Polani R. The ACE Framework: a structured approach for assessing the credibility of exposure-outcome associations in umbrella reviews. Manuscript submitted.