Methodological quality and reporting using time-to-event data in sports science and medicine: a scoping review

Abstract

Time-to-event is a powerful statistical approach increasingly used in sports science and medicine to examine time-to-event outcomes such as time to sports injury occurrence, career duration and recovery processes. This scoping review aims to systematically assess the methodological quality and reporting practices of studies published within the sports science and medicine domain using time-to-event techniques (e.g., Cox regression). We conducted a scoping review of 138 original studies published between 2013 and 2023. Studies were identified from PubMed and Web of Science, and methodological reporting was evaluated using the Statistical Analyses and Methods in the Published Literature guidelines, focusing on statistical methods, model assumptions, censoring and reporting of survival measures. Reporting deficiencies were widespread. Over 90% of studies did not report the number of individuals at risk at each time point, 75% did not adequately address assumptions underlying survival models and 62% did not clearly define the purpose of the analysis. Only 20% reported median survival times when pertinent, and reporting of HRs and reasons for censoring was often incomplete. Slight improvements were observed in studies published after 2020, but major gaps remain. These findings highlight the need for improved methodological transparency, adherence to reporting standards and comprehensive statistical education. Enhancing these aspects will strengthen the reproducibility, interpretability and practical relevance of time-to-event studies in sports science and medicine.

Peer Reviewed

Postprint (published version)