The USPSTF grades its recommendations based on the strength of USPSTF Grade Definitions after May 2007
The USPSTF updated its definitions of the grades it assigns to recommendations and now includes "suggestions for practice" associated with each grade. The USPSTF has also defined levels of certainty regarding net benefit. These definitions apply to USPSTF recommendations voted on after May 2007.
Grade A
Definition: The USPSTF recommends the service. There is high certainty that the net benefit is substantial.
Suggestions for Practice: Offer or provide this service.
Grade B
Definition: The USPSTF recommends the service. There is high certainty that the net benefit is moderate or there is moderate certainty that the net benefit is moderate to substantial.
Suggestions for Practice: Offer or provide this service.
Grade C
Definition: The USPSTF recommends against routinely providing the service. There may be considerations that support providing the service in an individual patient. There is at least moderate certainty that the net benefit is small.
Suggestions for Practice: Offer or provide this service only if other considerations support the offering or providing the service in an individual patient.
Grade D
Definition: The USPSTF recommends against the service. There is moderate or high certainty that the service has no net benefit or that the harms outweigh the benefits.
Suggestions for Practice: Discourage the use of this service.
I Statement
Definition: The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of the service. Evidence is lacking, of poor quality, or conflicting, and the balance of benefits and harms cannot be determined.
Suggestions for Practice: Read the clinical considerations section of the USPSTF Recommendation Statement. If the service is offered, patients should understand about the balance of benefits and harms.
