According to the authors of recent research from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 'In this paper, challenges to recruiting African Americans specifically for a dietary feeding trial are examined, learning experiences gained and suggestions to overcome these challenges in future trials are discussed. A total of 333 individuals were randomized in the trial and 234 (167 sibling pairs and 67 parents/siblings) completed the dietary intervention and required DNA blood sampling for genetic analysis.'
'The trial used multiple strategies for recruitment. Hand distributed letters and flyers through mass distribution at various churches resulted in the largest number (n = 153, 46%) of African Americans in the trial. Word of mouth accounted for the second largest number (n = 120, 36%) and included prior study participants. These two recruitment sources represented 82% (n = 273) of the total number of individuals randomized in GET READI. The remaining 18% (n = 60) consisted of a combination of sources including printed message on check stubs, newspaper articles, radio and TV appearances, screening events and presentations. Though challenging, the recruitment efforts for GET READI produced a significant number of African American participants despite the inability to complete the trial as planned because of low recruitment yields,' wrote B.M. Kennedy and colleagues.
The researchers concluded: 'Nevertheless, the recruitment process produced substantial numbers that successfully completed all study requirements.'
Kennedy and colleagues published their study in Health Education Research (Challenges to recruitment and retention of African Americans in the gene-environment trial of response to dietary interventions (GET READI) for heart health. Health Education Research, 2011;26(5):923-936).
For additional information, contact B.M. Kennedy, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Outpatient Clinic, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, United States.
Publisher contact information for the journal Health Education Research is: Oxford University Press, Great Clarendon St., Oxford OX2 6DP, England.
Keywords: City:Baton Rouge, State:Louisiana, Country:United States, Region:North and Central America
This article was prepared by Education Letter editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2011, Education Letter via VerticalNews.com.
