312 Evaluation of recruitment methodologies for under-represented adolescent populations in genetic and epigenetic studies of type 2 diabetes
Objectives/Goals: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in adolescents is rising, presenting unique challenges for recruitment in clinical research – particularly among adolescents who belong to minoritized race/ethnic backgrounds. The primary aims of our study are to identify and address barriers...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Cambridge University Press
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Journal of Clinical and Translational Science |
| Online Access: | https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S2059866124009440/type/journal_article |
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| Summary: | Objectives/Goals: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in adolescents is rising, presenting unique challenges for recruitment in clinical research – particularly among adolescents who belong to minoritized race/ethnic backgrounds. The primary aims of our study are to identify and address barriers to recruiting adolescents, particularly around community trust. Methods/Study Population: This study employed a two-phase approach to evaluate recruitment strategies for underrepresented adolescent populations in genomics studies of T2D. After IRB approval, in Phase 1, we utilized the electronic medical record (EMR) system at Children’s of Alabama to prescreen based on inclusion criteria (adolescents aged 12–18 years with T2D). Recruitment efforts were tailored to address barriers unique to underrepresented populations, such as flexibility in scheduling contact times to accommodate family availability. In Phase 2, we are implementing and assessing the effectiveness of a peer recruitment model, wherein adolescents from underrepresented groups are trained to engage peers within their community. Focus groups (6–8 participants per group) will explore facilitators and barriers to recruitment. Results/Anticipated Results: Phase 1 revealed that EMR prescreening effectively identified eligible participants, and direct outreach (phone calls, face-to-face contact during clinical visits) significantly improved recruitment success, especially among underrepresented adolescents. Flexible scheduling and consolidating study appointments enhanced participation, addressing logistical challenges like geographic distance. However, frequent changes in contact information (phone and email information) created barriers. In Phase 2, early focus group results suggest that peer recruitment is promising, with trust and community engagement being key factors. Adolescents recruited by peers were more likely to participate, though logistical hurdles such as transportation and family concerns remain. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Our study demonstrates the value of personalized outreach and prescreening in improving recruitment among adolescents. These strategies can engage communities that include Black, Indigenous, and People of Colored. These findings underscore the need for flexible recruitment strategies to ensure their participation in T2D adolescent research. |
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| ISSN: | 2059-8661 |