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Strategies for Recruiting Young African American Men for Primary Stroke Prevention Research
Insights
Recruiting young African American men for health research is achievable using social networks and trusted sources. This strategy effectively engaged participants for a stroke risk reduction study.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Cardiovascular Disease Research
- Health Disparities
Background:
- African American men experience a high burden of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
- This demographic is frequently underrepresented in clinical research.
- Addressing this gap is crucial for equitable health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a recruitment plan targeting young African American men for the Stroke Counseling for Risk Reduction in Men project.
- To improve the inclusion of underrepresented groups in health research.
- To gather insights for future recruitment strategies.
Main Methods:
- The recruitment plan was informed by prior research experience and a literature review.
- Young African American men (ages 20-35) were recruited for focus groups.
- Focus groups discussed stroke prevention and the Stroke Counseling for Risk Reduction intervention.
Main Results:
- Word-of-mouth (42%) and social media (28%) were primary recruitment channels for screening respondents (N=81).
- Focus group participants (N=32) suggested incentives and social media for recruitment.
- Participants emphasized the motivational role of learning about studies from trusted contacts.
Conclusions:
- The developed recruitment plan successfully enrolled a sufficient sample of young African American men.
- Social networks and trusted information sources are vital for recruiting this population.
- Findings offer actionable recommendations for future health research involving minority men.
Background:
African American (AA) men bear a disproportionate burden of cardiovascular disease and stroke but are often underrepresented in research.
Objective:
This article describes the development and evaluation of a recruitment plan to reach young AA men for the Stroke Counseling for Risk Reduction in Men project.
Methods:
The plan was developed from researchers' previous experiences and a literature review, and used to recruit AA men, ages 20 to 35 years, for focus groups about stroke and Stroke Counseling for Risk Reduction.
Results:
Screening survey respondents (N = 81) were reached mostly by word of mouth (42%) and social media (28%). Focus group participants (N = 32) recommended appropriate incentives and social media to recruit young AA men for research. They also suggested learning about the study from a friend, colleague, or study participant could motivate participation.
Conclusion:
The plan was successful in reaching and enrolling an adequate sample. Findings and recommendations highlight the importance of social networks and trusted sources.
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