Data Management in Multicountry Consortium Studies: The Enterics For Global Health (EFGH) Shigella Surveillance Study...

Area of Science:

• Global Health Research
• Data Management Systems
• Infectious Disease Surveillance

Background:

• Effective data management is crucial for large, multicountry research consortia.
• The Enterics For Global Health (EFGH) Shigella surveillance study involves 7 countries.
• The study aims to estimate Shigella-associated diarrhea incidence in young children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement robust data management systems for the EFGH Shigella study.
• To ensure high-quality data collection and equitable data access and decision-making among consortium members.
• To establish standardized procedures for data processing, storage, monitoring, and quality control.

Main Methods:

• A dedicated working group developed the data management systems during the planning phase.
• REDCap and SurveyCTO were selected as the primary database systems.
• Procedures for data processing, storage, monitoring, quality control, and access were established.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive Data Management Plan was created, outlining key procedures.
• The implemented system includes real-time data visualizations for rapid cleaning and monitoring.
• The system facilitates quicker data analysis and progress tracking.

Conclusions:

• The EFGH study provides valuable insights into data management for global health research.
• This experience will serve as a case study for future large-scale, multicountry surveillance projects.
• The study emphasizes rigorous data management while maintaining equitable data access and control.