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Karuchit S, Thiengtham P, Tanpradech S, Srinor W, Yingyong T, Naiwatanakul T, Northbrook S, Hladik W. A Web-Based, Respondent-Driven Sampling Survey Among Men Who Have Sex With Men (Kai Noi): Description of Methods and Characteristics. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e50812. [PMID: 38767946 PMCID: PMC11148518 DOI: 10.2196/50812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thailand's HIV epidemic is heavily concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), and surveillance efforts are mostly based on case surveillance and local biobehavioral surveys. OBJECTIVE We piloted Kai Noi, a web-based respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey among MSM. METHODS We developed an application coded in PHP that facilitated all procedures and events typically used in an RDS office for use on the web, including e-coupon validation, eligibility screening, consent, interview, peer recruitment, e-coupon issuance, and compensation. All procedures were automated and e-coupon ID numbers were randomly generated. Participants' phone numbers were the principal means to detect and prevent duplicate enrollment. Sampling took place across Thailand; residents of Bangkok were also invited to attend 1 of 10 clinics for an HIV-related blood draw with additional compensation. RESULTS Sampling took place from February to June 2022; seeds (21 at the start, 14 added later) were identified through banner ads, micromessaging, and in online chat rooms. Sampling reached all 6 regions and almost all provinces. Fraudulent (duplicate) enrollment using "borrowed" phone numbers was identified and led to the detection and invalidation of 318 survey records. A further 106 participants did not pass an attention filter question (asking recruits to select a specific categorical response) and were excluded from data analysis, leading to a final data set of 1643 valid participants. Only one record showed signs of straightlining (identical adjacent responses). None of the Bangkok respondents presented for a blood draw. CONCLUSIONS We successfully developed an application to implement web-based RDS among MSM across Thailand. Measures to minimize, detect, and eliminate fraudulent survey enrollment are imperative in web-based surveys offering compensation. Efforts to improve biomarker uptake are needed to fully tap the potential of web-based sampling and data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samart Karuchit
- Informatics Section, Business Services Office, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Panupit Thiengtham
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Suvimon Tanpradech
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Watcharapol Srinor
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Thitipong Yingyong
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Thananda Naiwatanakul
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Sanny Northbrook
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Wolfgang Hladik
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
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P. Fernandes RDC, de Siqueira JS, dos Santos MF, Pena PGL, Werneck GL, Burdorf A. Precarious work and methodological challenges to study hard-to-reach populations. Rev Saude Publica 2024; 58:12. [PMID: 38656047 PMCID: PMC11037901 DOI: 10.11606/s1518-8787.2024058005470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the methodological challenges and strategies of a web survey on the working conditions and health among delivery workers. METHODS The study population consisted of Brazilian delivery workers operating in the national territory. Procedures include building solid and ongoing collaboration with worker representatives and conducting a four-month data collection from February to May 2022, sharing the link to the online questionnaire on social media such as social networks (Facebook, Instagram) and messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram). RESULTS The recruitment of 41 leaders or influencers of delivery workers increased the dissemination of the study, some of whom participated in the consensual validation of the questionnaire; the production of content for social media for the dissemination of the questionnaire link on social networks and applications, and the in-person dissemination of the study at the delivery workers' meeting points during the workday played a fundamental role, totaling around 132 hours in 45 shifts. The strategies adopted for data collection with a hybrid approach to dissemination made it possible to carry out the web survey. After four months of the web survey, 564 delivery workers, 543 men and 18 women, responded to the online questionnaire. CONCLUSION The web survey presented methodological strategies to overcome the challenge of reaching workers, including hybrid work, to increase the participation of workers, on whom epidemiological research is still scarce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita de Cássia P. Fernandes
- Universidade Federal da BahiaFaculdade de Medicina da BahiaSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Faculdade de Medicina da Bahia. Salvador, BA, Brasil
- Universidade Federal da BahiaPrograma de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Ambiente e TrabalhoSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Ambiente e Trabalho. Salvador, BA, Brasil
- Universidade Federal da BahiaPrograma de Pós-graduação em Saúde ColetivaSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Coletiva. Salvador, BA, Brasil
| | - Janaína Santos de Siqueira
- Universidade Federal do Rio de JaneiroInstituto de Estudos em Saúde ColetivaRio de JaneiroRJBrasilUniversidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. Instituto de Estudos em Saúde Coletiva. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Matheus F dos Santos
- Universidade Federal da BahiaFaculdade de Medicina da BahiaSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Faculdade de Medicina da Bahia. Salvador, BA, Brasil
| | - Paulo G. L. Pena
- Universidade Federal da BahiaFaculdade de Medicina da BahiaSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Faculdade de Medicina da Bahia. Salvador, BA, Brasil
- Universidade Federal da BahiaPrograma de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Ambiente e TrabalhoSalvadorBABrasilUniversidade Federal da Bahia. Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Ambiente e Trabalho. Salvador, BA, Brasil
| | - Guilherme L. Werneck
- Universidade Federal do Rio de JaneiroInstituto de Estudos em Saúde ColetivaRio de JaneiroRJBrasilUniversidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. Instituto de Estudos em Saúde Coletiva. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Alex Burdorf
- University Medical Center - Erasmus MCDepartment of Public HealthRotterdamThe NetherlandsUniversity Medical Center - Erasmus MC. Department of Public Health. Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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McGowan CR, Alhaffar M, Ekoriko P, Al-Refai S, Badr J, Bell L, Checchi F. Adult mortality patterns in Yemen before and during armed conflict: evidence from a web survey of the global diaspora. Confl Health 2023; 17:36. [PMID: 37563626 PMCID: PMC10413691 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00535-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ongoing war in Yemen has created a severe and protracted crisis that has left nearly three-quarters of the population in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. Despite eight years of conflict there exist few robust estimates of how the conflict (and the conflict combined with the COVID-19 pandemic) have affected mortality in Yemen. As the security situation has limited access to affected populations we have designed a novel alternative to local mortality surveys. METHODS We used a web-based, respondent-driven sampling method to disseminate a mortality survey amongst the global Yemeni diaspora. We used Cox proportional hazards survival models to estimate the association between the exposure (i.e. between the pre-conflict, conflict, and conflict/pandemic periods) and mortality risk, adjusted for gender and birth cohort. RESULTS Eighty-nine eligible respondents completed the survey. Respondents provided data on the status of 1704 individuals of whom 85 (5%) had died; of these 65 (3.8%) were reported to have died in Yemen. An analysis of survivorship of respondents' parents after their 50th birthday (adjusted for gender and birth cohort) provided weak evidence that the war and pandemic periods were associated with higher mortality when compared to the pre-war period. Analysis of the subset of individuals who died in Yemen also suggested an increased, but non-significant hazard of dying during the war/pandemic period: this association tended towards significance when allowing for varying degrees of out-migration from Yemen across the cohort. The number of deaths amongst respondents' siblings and children under five in Yemen were too low to allow meaningful analysis. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest increased mortality during the war/pandemic period, compared to the pre-war period, among older Yemeni adults. However, our findings require careful interpretation as our study design cannot establish causation, and as our small and non-representative sample appeared skewed towards higher-income, urban communities. Surveys of diaspora populations offer a promising means of describing mortality patterns in crisis-affected populations; though, large numbers of respondents are likely required to achieve accurate mortality estimates and to adjust for selection bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R McGowan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Mervat Alhaffar
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Syria Research Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and National University of Singapore School of Public Health, London, UK
| | - Promise Ekoriko
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Information Technology Services, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | | | - Jamal Badr
- Het Grote Midden Oosten Platform [The Greater Middle East Platform], The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Lucy Bell
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Francesco Checchi
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
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McGowan CR, Ekoriko P, Alhaffar M, Cassidy-Seyoum S, Whitbread S, Rogers P, Bell L, Checchi F. Design and implementation of a web-based, respondent-driven sampling solution. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2023; 23:113. [PMID: 37407971 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-023-02217-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) refers both to a chain-referral sampling method and an analytical model for analysing sampled data. Web-based respondent-driven sampling (webRDS) uses internet-based recruitment coupled with an electronic survey to carry out RDS studies; there is currently no commercially available webRDS solution. We designed and developed a webRDS solution to support a research study aimed at estimating conflict-attributable mortality in Yemen. Our webRDS solution is composed of an existing survey platform (i.e. ODK) and a bespoke RDS system. The RDS system is designed to administer and manage an RDS survey cascade and includes: (1) an application programming interface, (2) a study participant client, and (3) an administrator interface. We report here on the design of the webRDS solution and its implementation. RESULTS We consulted members of the Yemeni diaspora throughout the development of the solution. Technical obstacles were largely the result of: WhatsApp's policies on bulk messaging and automated messaging behaviour, the inherent constraints of SMS messaging, and SMS filtering behaviour. Language support was straight-forward yet time consuming. Survey uptake was lower than expected. Factors which may have impacted uptake include: our use of consumable survey links, low interest amongst the diaspora population, lack of material incentives, and the length and subject matter of the survey itself. The SMS/WhatsApp messaging integration was relatively complex and limited the information we could send potential participants. CONCLUSION Despite lower-than expected survey uptake we believe our webRDS solution provides efficient and flexible means to survey a globally diverse population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R McGowan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Promise Ekoriko
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Information Technology Services, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Mervat Alhaffar
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Sarah Cassidy-Seyoum
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Steven Whitbread
- Information Technology Services, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Phil Rogers
- Information Technology Services, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Lucy Bell
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Francesco Checchi
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
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Diexer S, Teslya A, Buskens V, Matser A, Stein M, Kretzschmar ME. Improving web-based respondent-driven sampling performance among men who have sex with men in the Netherlands. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000192. [PMID: 36812647 PMCID: PMC9931300 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) uses the social network of participants to sample people of populations that can be challenging to engage. While in this context RDS offers improvements on standard sampling methods, it does not always generate a sufficiently large sample. In this study we aimed to identify preferences of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands regarding surveys and recruitment to studies with the subsequent goal of improving the performance of web-based RDS in MSM. A questionnaire about preferences with respect to various aspects of an web-based RDS study was circulated among participants of the Amsterdam Cohort Studies, a study among MSM. The duration of a survey and the type and amount of participation reward were explored. Participants were also asked about their preferences regarding invitation and recruitment methods. We used multi-level and rank-ordered logistic regression to analyze the data and identify the preferences. The majority of the 98 participants were older than 45 years (59.2%), were born in the Netherlands (84.7%), and had a university degree (77.6%). Participants did not have a preference regarding the type of participation reward, but they preferred to spend less time on a survey and to get a higher monetary reward. Sending a personal email was the preferred option to getting invited or inviting someone to a study, while using Facebook messenger was the least preferred option. There are differences between age groups: monetary rewards were less important to older participants (45+) and younger participants (18-34) more often preferred SMS/WhatsApp to recruit others. When designing a web-based RDS study for MSM, it is important to balance the duration of the survey and the monetary reward. If the study takes more of a participants time, it might be beneficial to provide a higher incentive. To optimize expected participation, the recruitment method should be selected based on the targeted population group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Diexer
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Alexandra Teslya
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent Buskens
- Department of Sociology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service (GGD) of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mart Stein
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam E. Kretzschmar
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Inghels M, Kouassi AK, Niangoran S, Bekelynck A, Carilon S, Sika L, Koné M, Danel C, Degrées du Loû A, Larmarange J. Preferences and access to community-based HIV testing sites among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Côte d'Ivoire. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e052536. [PMID: 35760538 PMCID: PMC9237902 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Measuring access and preferences to Men who have Sex with Men focused community-based HIV testing sites (MSM-CBTS) in Côte d'Ivoire. DESIGN A respondent-driven sampling telephone survey. SETTING National survey conducted in 2018 in Côte d'Ivoire. PARTICIPANTS 518 MSM aged over 18 years old. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Knowledge, practices, satisfaction and preferences regarding MSM-CBTS. Factors associated with MSM-CTBS access or knowledge and with HIV testing venue preferences were examined. RESULTS Only half of the respondents (47%) reported knowing of an MSM-CBTS. Of these, 79% had already attended one. Both knowing of and ever visiting an MSM-CBTS were significantly associated with a higher number of HIV tests performed in the past 12 months and having disclosed sexual orientation to one family member.In terms of preferences, 37% of respondents said they preferred undifferentiated HIV testing sites (ie, 'all patients' HIV testing sites), 34% preferred MSM-CBTS and 29% had no preference.Those who reported being sexually attracted to women, being bisexual and those who did not know an MSM non-governmental organisation were less likely to prefer MSM-CBTS. MSM who preferred undifferentiated HIV testing sites mentioned the lack of discretion and anonymity of community-based sites and the desire to avoid the gaze of others. CONCLUSION Community-based HIV testing is well suited for MSM who identify as homosexual and those close to the MSM community, while maintaining undifferentiated HIV testing is essential for others. Both types of activities need to be maintained and developed. Healthcare professionals in undifferentiated HIV testing sites need to be properly trained in the non-judgemental reception of MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Inghels
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Arsène Kra Kouassi
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
| | | | - Anne Bekelynck
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
- Programme PAC-CI, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Séverine Carilon
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Lazare Sika
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d'Economie Appliquée d'Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Mariatou Koné
- Institut d'Ethno-Sociologie, Université Félix-Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Christine Danel
- Programme PAC-CI, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Bordeaux Population Health, Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux, France
| | - Annabel Degrées du Loû
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Joseph Larmarange
- Centre Population et Développement, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Inserm, Paris, France
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Buffel V, Reyniers T, Masquillier C, Thunissen E, Nöstlinger C, Laga M, Wouters E, Berghe WV, Deblonde J, Vuylsteke B. Awareness of, Willingness to Take PrEP and Its Actual Use Among Belgian MSM at High Risk of HIV Infection: Secondary Analysis of the Belgian European MSM Internet Survey. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1793-1807. [PMID: 34817766 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03526-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We examined PrEP awareness, willingness to take it and early PrEP use among men who have sex with men (MSM) at increased risk of HIV acquisition in Belgium. This analysis of the Belgian EMIS online data of 2017-2018 adopts a cascade approach, with the following steps quantified as conditional probabilities: being eligible for, aware of, willing to take PrEP, and PrEP use. One out of three MSM was eligible to use PrEP according to the operationalized Belgian reimbursement criteria. PrEP awareness was lower among socioeconomically vulnerable MSM, MSM living outside large cities, MSM who were less open about their sexuality and those who did not identify as gay or homosexual. A lack of PrEP knowledge, a higher self-efficacy regarding safe sex, having a steady partner and reporting more symptoms of depression were related to unwillingness to use PrEP. Among those willing to take PrEP, less than one third were actually using PrEP. Not using PrEP was associated with living in small cities and experiencing financial problems.
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Helms YB, Hamdiui N, Kretzschmar MEE, Rocha LEC, van Steenbergen JE, Bengtsson L, Thorson A, Timen A, Stein ML. Applications and Recruitment Performance of Web-Based Respondent-Driven Sampling: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e17564. [PMID: 33448935 PMCID: PMC7846441 DOI: 10.2196/17564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Web-based respondent-driven sampling is a novel sampling method for the recruitment of participants for generating population estimates, studying social network characteristics, and delivering health interventions. However, the application, barriers and facilitators, and recruitment performance of web-based respondent-driven sampling have not yet been systematically investigated. Objective Our objectives were to provide an overview of published research using web-based respondent-driven sampling and to investigate factors related to the recruitment performance of web-based respondent-driven sampling. Methods We conducted a scoping review on web-based respondent-driven sampling studies published between 2000 and 2019. We used the process evaluation of complex interventions framework to gain insights into how web-based respondent-driven sampling was implemented, what mechanisms of impact drove recruitment, what the role of context was in the study, and how these components together influenced the recruitment performance of web-based respondent-driven sampling. Results We included 18 studies from 8 countries (high- and low-middle income countries), in which web-based respondent-driven sampling was used for making population estimates (n=12), studying social network characteristics (n=3), and delivering health-related interventions (n=3). Studies used web-based respondent-driven sampling to recruit between 19 and 3448 participants from a variety of target populations. Studies differed greatly in the number of seeds recruited, the proportion of successfully recruiting participants, the number of recruitment waves, the type of incentives offered to participants, and the duration of data collection. Studies that recruited relatively more seeds, through online platforms, and with less rigorous selection procedures reported relatively low percentages of successfully recruiting seeds. Studies that did not offer at least one guaranteed material incentive reported relatively fewer waves and lower percentages of successfully recruiting participants. The time of data collection was shortest in studies with university students. Conclusions Web-based respondent-driven sampling can be successfully applied to recruit individuals for making population estimates, studying social network characteristics, and delivering health interventions. In general, seed and peer recruitment may be enhanced by rigorously selecting and motivating seeds, offering at least one guaranteed material incentive, and facilitating adequate recruitment options regarding the target population’s online connectedness and communication behavior. Potential trade-offs should be taken into account when implementing web-based respondent-driven sampling, such as having less opportunities to implement rigorous seed selection procedures when recruiting many seeds, as well as issues around online rather than physical participation, such as the risk of cheaters participating repeatedly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick B Helms
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Nora Hamdiui
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands.,Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Mirjam E E Kretzschmar
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Luis E C Rocha
- Department of Economics & Department of Physics and Astronomy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jim E van Steenbergen
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands.,Centre for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Anna Thorson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Aura Timen
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands.,Athena Institute for Research on Innovation and Communication in Health and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mart L Stein
- National Coordination Centre for Communicable Disease Control, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
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Young AM, Ballard AM, Cooper HLF. Novel Recruitment Methods for Research Among Young Adults in Rural Areas Who Use Opioids: Cookouts, Coupons, and Community-Based Staff. Public Health Rep 2020; 135:746-755. [PMID: 32933438 DOI: 10.1177/0033354920954796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rural communities in the United States are increasingly becoming epicenters of substance use and related harms. However, best practices for recruiting rural people who use drugs (PWUD) for epidemiologic research are unknown, because such strategies were developed in cities. This study explores the feasibility of web- and community-based strategies to recruit rural, young adult PWUD into epidemiologic research. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited PWUD from rural Kentucky to participate in a web-based survey about opioid use using web-based peer referral and community-based strategies, including cookouts, flyers, street outreach, and invitations to PWUD enrolled in a concurrent substance use study. Staff members labeled recruitment materials with unique codes to enable tracking. We assessed eligibility and fraud through online eligibility screening and a fraud detection algorithm, respectively. Eligibility criteria included being aged 18-35, recently using opioids to get high, and residing in the study area. RESULTS Recruitment yielded 410 complete screening entries, of which 234 were eligible and 151 provided complete, nonfraudulent surveys (ie, surveys that passed a fraud-detection algorithm designed to identify duplicate, nonlocal, and/or bot-generated entries). Cookouts and subsequent web-based peer referrals accounted for the highest proportion of screening entries (37.1%, n = 152), but only 29.6% (n = 45) of entries from cookouts and subsequent web-based peer referrals resulted in eligible, nonfraudulent surveys. Recruitment and subsequent web-based peer referral from the concurrent study yielded the second most screening entries (27.8%, n = 114), 77.2% (n = 88) of which resulted in valid surveys. Other recruitment strategies combined to yield 35.1% (n = 144) of screening entries and 11.9% (n = 18) of valid surveys. CONCLUSIONS Web-based methods need to be complemented by context-tailored, street-outreach activities to recruit rural PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Young
- 4530 Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA.,Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - April M Ballard
- 4530 Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA.,1371 Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Lee S, Ong AR, Elliott M. Exploring Mechanisms of Recruitment and Recruitment Cooperation in Respondent Driven Sampling. JOURNAL OF OFFICIAL STATISTICS 2020; 36:339-360. [PMID: 33162642 PMCID: PMC7643877 DOI: 10.2478/jos-2020-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Respondent driven sampling (RDS) is a sampling method designed for hard-to-sample groups with strong social ties. RDS starts with a small number of arbitrarily selected participants ("seeds"). Seeds are issued recruitment coupons, which are used to recruit from their social networks. Waves of recruitment and data collection continue until reaching a sufficient sample size. Under the assumptions of random recruitment, with-replacement sampling, and a sufficient number of waves, the probability of selection for each participant converges to be proportional to their network size. With recruitment noncooperation, however, recruitment can end abruptly, causing operational difficulties with unstable sample sizes. Noncooperation may void the recruitment Markovian assumptions, leading to selection bias. Here, we consider two RDS studies: one targeting Korean immigrants in Los Angeles and in Michigan; and another study targeting persons who inject drugs in Southeast Michigan. We explore predictors of coupon redemption, associations between recruiter and recruits, and details within recruitment dynamics. While no consistent predictors of noncooperation were found, there was evidence that coupon redemption of targeted recruits was more common among those who shared social bonds with their recruiters, suggesting that noncooperation is more likely to be a feature of recruits not cooperating, rather than recruiters failing to distribute coupons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunghee Lee
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, U.S.A
| | - Ai Rene Ong
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, U.S.A
| | - Michael Elliott
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, U.S.A
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Ballard AM, Cooper HL, Young AM. Web-Based Eligibility Quizzes to Verify Opioid Use and County Residence Among Rural Young Adults: Eligibility Screening Results from a Feasibility Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e12984. [PMID: 31215520 PMCID: PMC6604504 DOI: 10.2196/12984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Web-based methods can be used to collect data from hidden populations, including people who use drugs (PWUD). These methods might be especially advantageous among PWUD in rural areas, where transportation barriers are prevalent, stigma may heighten concerns about confidentiality, and internet access is improving. However, Web-based research with PWUD can be challenging, especially in verifying eligibility. Administering quizzes to verify residential and substance use eligibility could prove valuable in online research among PWUD, yet the utility of this approach is currently unknown. Objective This study describes the implementation of online eligibility quizzes about the local community to verify residence in the target study area along with drug dose, appearance, and price to verify opioid misuse. Methods To be eligible, individuals had to live in 1 of 5 eastern Kentucky counties, report using opioids to get high in the past 30 days, and be 18 to 35 years old. Participants recruited from August 2017 to July 2018 were asked questions about their opioid use followed by a quiz about drug dose, appearance, and price to verify substance use eligibility. Residential eligibility was verified with 5-question quizzes assessing knowledge of the county where they reported living. Questions tested knowledge about towns, festivals, and landmarks; local school mascots and colors; and presence of certain retail stores, restaurants, and facilities (eg, jails). A subsample that reported using opioids in the past 24 hours was randomly selected to complete urine drug testing (UDT). Nonparametric tests were performed to explore differences across demographic subgroups. Results Of the 410 entries assessed for eligibility, 39.3% (161/410) were ineligible as they reported no substance use, being outside the age range, or living outside the study area. Of the remaining 249 who met the eligibility criteria based on age, residency, and opioid misuse, 94.0% (234/249) passed the eligibility quizzes. Among those who passed the heroin quiz, 99.4% (167/168) recognized the image of powdered heroin, 94.6% (159/168) answered the cap size (ie, the purchase unit) question correctly, and 97.0% (163/168) answered the street price question correctly. Among those who passed the drug quiz for prescription opioids, 95% (36/38) answered the dose question correctly, and 82% (31/38) selected the correct image. In a random sample of participants who completed UDT within 3 days of their online screening, 74% (25/34) tested positive for an opioid. Conclusions This study demonstrated the utility of using online eligibility screening quizzes to verify opioid misuse and residence. Participants accurately recognized heroin and prescription opioid doses, prices, and images and correctly answered questions about features of their county. Online quizzes to screen and enroll PWUD hold promise for future research as an alternative to more time- and resource-intensive approaches that could offset the advantages of Web-based methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Ballard
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Department of Environmental Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Hannah Lf Cooper
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
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Datta A, Lin W, Rao A, Diouf D, Kouame A, Edwards JK, Bao L, Louis TA, Baral S. Bayesian Estimation of MSM Population Size in Côte d'Ivoire. STATISTICS AND PUBLIC POLICY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2019; 6:1-13. [PMID: 31341935 PMCID: PMC6656394 DOI: 10.1080/2330443x.2018.1546634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Côte d'Ivoire has among the most generalized HIV epidemics in West Africa with an estimated half million people living with HIV. Across West Africa, key populations, including gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM), are often disproportionately burdened with HIV due to specific acquisition and transmission risks. Quantifying population sizes of MSM at the subnational level is critical to ensuring evidence-based decisions regarding the scale and content of HIV prevention interventions. While survey-based direct estimates of MSM numbers are available in a few urban centers across Côte d'Ivoire, no data on MSM population size exists in other areas without any community group infrastructure to facilitate sufficient access to communities of MSM. The data are used in a Bayesian regression setup to produce estimates of the numbers of MSM in areas of Côte d'Ivoire prioritized in the HIV response. Our hierarchical model imputes missing covariates using geo-spatial information and allows for proper uncertainty quantification leading to confidence bounds for predicted MSM population size estimates. This process provided population size estimates where there are no empirical data, to guide the prioritization of further collection of empirical data on MSM and inform evidence-based scaling of HIV prevention and treatment programs for MSM across Côte d'Ivoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhirup Datta
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Wenyi Lin
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Amrita Rao
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Abo Kouame
- Ministry of Health, Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Ivory Coast
| | - Jessie K. Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Le Bao
- Department of Statistics, Penn State University, State College, PA
| | - Thomas A. Louis
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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Jonsson J, Stein M, Johansson G, Bodin T, Strömdahl S. A performance assessment of web-based respondent driven sampling among workers with precarious employment in Sweden. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210183. [PMID: 30629661 PMCID: PMC6328181 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Precarious employment (PE) is a social determinant of poor health of workers. However, this population usually lack a sampling frame, making it challenging to identify the characteristics of this group. Web-based respondent driven sampling (webRDS) recruits individuals online through the social network and can provide population estimates. This study aims to assess the performance of webRDS in a population of workers with PE. METHOD WebRDS was used for recruitment and data collection in the PRecarious EMployment In Stockholm (PREMIS) study. Cross-sectional questionnaire data was collected between November 2016 and May 2017. Eligible participants were living and/or working in Stockholm County, 18-65 years old, had a personal identification number and were currently employed. WebRDS performance was assessed by the total sample size, length of recruitment chains, sample composition, sample proportions and estimated RDSII population proportions with confidence intervals. RESULTS The webRDS process resulted in a sample of 358 recruits and a total sample of 415 participants, recruited over 1-15 waves. Of the participating seeds and recruits, 60% and 48%, respectively, successfully recruited at least one peer. The sample composition stabilized for all variables assessed. The sample proportions and RDSII estimates differed by 1-8% and the confidence intervals included the sample proportions for all variables except one. CONCLUSIONS WebRDS successfully recruited a sufficient sample of workers with precarious employment from which population estimates could be made. Future studies should consider implementing webRDS on a national level in order to further study this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Jonsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mart Stein
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Gun Johansson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Theo Bodin
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Strömdahl
- Department of Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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14
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Persson KI, Berglund T, Bergström J, Tikkanen R, Thorson A, Forsberg B. Place and practice: Sexual risk behaviour while travelling abroad among Swedish men who have sex with men. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 25:58-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Abstract
Hidden populations, such as injecting drug users (IDUs), sex workers (SWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM), are considered at high risk of contracting and transmitting infectious diseases such as AIDS, gonorrhea, syphilis etc. However, public health interventions to such groups are prohibited due to strong privacy concerns and lack of global information, which is a necessity for traditional strategies such as targeted immunization and acquaintance immunization. In this study, we introduce an innovative intervention strategy to be used in combination with a sampling approach that is widely used for hidden populations, Respondent-driven Sampling (RDS). The RDS strategy is implemented in two steps: First, RDS is used to estimate the average degree (personal network size) and degree distribution of the target population with sample data. Second, a cut-off threshold is calculated and used to screen the respondents to be immunized. Simulations on model networks and real-world networks reveal that the efficiency of the RDS strategy is close to that of the targeted strategy. As the new strategy can be implemented with the RDS sampling process, it provides a cost-efficient and feasible approach for disease intervention and control for hidden populations.
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16
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Strömdahl S, Liljeros F, Thorson AE, Persson KI, Forsberg BC. HIV testing and prevention among foreign-born Men Who have Sex with Men: an online survey from Sweden. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:139. [PMID: 28143465 PMCID: PMC5282625 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3992-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an increasing trend toward international migration worldwide. With it comes a challenge for public health and public funded health care systems to meet the migrating population's health needs. Men who have sex with men are a key population for HIV, contributing an estimated 42% of new HIV cases in Europe in 2013. HIV monitoring data suggest that foreign-born MSM are not only exposed to a high risk of HIV before migration but also while living in Sweden. The aim of this study is to examine HIV testing prevalence and uptake of HIV prevention interventions among foreign-born MSM living in Sweden. METHODS A web survey available in English and Swedish was conducted from October 1 to October 30, 2013 via a Scandinavian Web community for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intergender people. The web survey included modules on sociodemographics, condom use, sexual risk behaviour and HIV/STI testing experience. 244 eligible MSM participants born abroad and living in Sweden participated in the study. Descriptive and inferential analysis was performed. RESULTS Half of the foreign-born MSM participants in this study had been tested for HIV during the last 12 months. Participants who had lived in Sweden less than or equal to 5 years were more likely to have been tested for HIV during the last 12 months. Having talked about HIV/STI with a prevention worker during the past year was associated with having been tested for HIV. Requested services among the majority of participants were HIV rapid test, anonymous HIV testing, HIV/STI testing outside of the health care setting and MSM-friendly clinics. CONCLUSION Efforts are needed to promote HIV testing among foreign-born MSM. Peer outreach, individual and group counselling may be preferred interventions to do so. In addition, it is critically important to increase HIV testing among foreign-born MSM who have lived in Sweden for more than five years. Further research should explore if scale up of implementation of requested services may increase frequency of HIV testing and detection of new cases linked to treatment among foreign-born MSM living in Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Strömdahl
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18a, floor 4, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Fredrik Liljeros
- Department of Sociology, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Ekéus Thorson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18a, floor 4, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Birger C Forsberg
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18a, floor 4, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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Mitchell J, Lee JY, Stephenson R. How Best to Obtain Valid, Verifiable Data Online From Male Couples? Lessons Learned From an eHealth HIV Prevention Intervention for HIV-Negative Male Couples. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2016; 2:e152. [PMID: 27649587 PMCID: PMC5050384 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.6392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As interest increases in the development of eHealth human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-preventive interventions for gay male couples, Web-based methods must also be developed to help increase the likelihood that couples enrolled and data collected from them represent true unique dyads. Methods to recruit and collect reliable and valid data from both members of a couple are lacking, yet are crucial for uptake of novel sexual health and HIV-prevention eHealth interventions. Methods to describe best practices to recruit male couples using targeted advertisements on Facebook are also lacking in the literature, yet could also help in this uptake. Objective The objective of our study was to describe challenges and lessons learned from experiences from two phases (developmental phase and online randomized controlled trial [RCT]) of an eHealth HIV-prevention intervention for concordant HIV-negative male couples in terms of (1) recruiting male couples using targeted advertisements on Facebook, (2) validating that data came from two partners of the couple, and (3) verifying that the two partners of the couple are in a relationship with each other. Methods The developmental phase refined the intervention via in-person focus groups, whereas the pilot-testing phase included an online RCT. For both phases, couples were recruited via targeted Facebook advertisements. Advertisements directed men to a study webpage and screener; once eligible, participants provided consent electronically. A partner referral system was embedded in the consenting process to recruit the relationship partner of the participant. Both men of the couple had to meet all eligibility criteria—individually and as a couple—before they could enroll in the study. Verification of couples’ relationships was assessed via the concurrence of predetermined screener items from both partners, done manually in the developmental phase and electronically in the pilot-testing phase. A system of decision rules was developed to assess the validity that data came from two unique partners of a couple. Results Several important lessons were learned from these experiences, resulting in recommendations for future eHealth studies involving male couples. Use of certain “interests” and types of images (eg, shirtless) in targeted Facebook advertisements should be avoided or used sparingly because these interests and types of images may generate adverse reactions from a broader audience. Development of a systematic approach with predetermined criteria and parameters to verify male couples’ relationships is strongly recommended. Further, researchers are encouraged to develop a system of decision rules to detect and handle suspicious data (eg, suspicious email addresses/names, multiple entries, same IP address used in multiple entries) to help validate the legitimacy of male couples’ relationships online. Conclusions These lessons learned combined with recommendations for future studies aim to help enhance recruitment efforts and the validity and reliability of collecting dyadic data from male couples for novel eHealth HIV-preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Mitchell
- Office of Public Health StudiesUniversity of Hawai'i at ManoaHonolulu, HIUnited States
| | - Ji-Young Lee
- Office of Public Health StudiesUniversity of Hawai'i at ManoaHonolulu, HIUnited States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health DisparitiesDepartment of Health Behavior and Biological SciencesUniversity of Michigan School of NursingAnn Arbor, MIUnited States
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Bourke JA, Schluter PJ, Hay-Smith EJC, Snell DL. Respondent driven sampling of wheelchair users: A lack of traction? F1000Res 2016; 5:753. [PMID: 27635221 PMCID: PMC5017286 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.8605.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, wheelchair users are an emerging demographic phenomenon, due to their increased prevalence and rapidly increasing life-span. While having significant healthcare implications, basic robust epidemiological information about wheelchair users is often lacking due, in part, to this population's 'hidden' nature. Increasingly popular in epidemiological research, Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS) provides a mechanism for generating unbiased population-based estimates for hard-to-reach populations, overcoming biases inherent within other sampling methods. This paper reports the first published study to employ RDS amongst wheelchair users. METHODS Between October 2015 and January 2016, a short, successfully piloted, internet-based national survey was initiated. Twenty seeds from diverse organisations were invited to complete the survey then circulate it to peers within their networks following a well-defined protocol. A predetermined reminder protocol was triggered when seeds or their peers failed to respond. All participants were entered into a draw for an iPad. RESULTS Overall, 19 people participated (nine women); 12 initial seeds, followed by seven second-wave participants arising from four seeds . Completion time for the survey ranged between 7 and 36 minutes. Despite repeated reminders, no further people were recruited. DISCUSSION While New Zealand wheelchair user numbers are unknown, an estimated 14% of people have physical impairments that limited mobility. The 19 respondents generated from adopting the RDS methodology here thus represents a negligible fraction of wheelchair users in New Zealand, and an insufficient number to ensure equilibrium required for unbiased analyses. While successful in other hard-to-reach populations, applying RDS methodology to wheelchair users requires further consideration. Formative research exploring areas of network characteristics, acceptability of RDS, appropriate incentive options, and seed selection amongst wheelchair users is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Bourke
- School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury, Canterbury, 8140, New Zealand; Burwood Academy of Independent Living, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
| | - Philip J Schluter
- School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury, Canterbury, 8140, New Zealand; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
| | - E Jean C Hay-Smith
- Rehabilitation Teaching and Research Unit, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand
| | - Deborah L Snell
- Burwood Academy of Independent Living, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
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