The Challenge of Community Representation.

Area of Science:

• Clinical Research
• Public Health
• Community Engagement

Background:

• Community advisory boards (CABs) are integral to clinical research but lack detailed data on their structure and composition in Africa.
• Limited information exists regarding the specific membership practices and selection methods of CABs within African research settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct the first qualitative study on the membership practices, selection methods, and qualifications of CABs within the Ugandan National CAB Network (UNCN).
• To explore the diversity and commonalities in CAB composition across six major HIV research centers in Uganda.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 45 CAB members and research liaisons across six Ugandan HIV research sites.
• Data collection focused on understanding the practical aspects of CAB membership, including recruitment and qualification criteria.

Main Results:

• All six CABs within the UNCN exclusively adopted a broad community membership model.
• Significant variation was observed in selection practices and member demographics across the different research sites.

Conclusions:

• CAB success is context-dependent, influenced by factors like funding, representation models, and research focus.
• Distinct guidelines may be necessary for establishing and maintaining effective CABs in diverse research environments, particularly in resource-limited settings.