A qualitative study on experiences and perceptions of screening for enrolment in HIV clinical research among volunteers in Kenya

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Screening volunteers to determine their eligibility to enrol in clinical research is an important phase in clinical research. However, little is known about how volunteers view and experience this phase of research implementation. This study explored volunteers’ perceptions and experiences of screening for enrolment into HIV clinical research studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS A qualitative study was conducted with 44 research participants purposively selected from a sample of 164 participants drawn from six research studies at the Kenya Aids Vaccine Initiative-Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR) in Nairobi, Kenya. Data was collected between March and June 2014, through in-depth interviews that were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were managed and thematically analyzed using the Atlas ti software. RESULTS Participants expressed mixed views and experiences about screening. A majority had initial fears about HIV testing and being screened for possible chronic diseases. Discomfort with physical examination, amounts of blood collected and associated pain were reported. On a positive note, participants were appreciative of the free comprehensive screening, and confirmations of being in good health. Those found with minor ailments reported receiving treatment before enrolment. HIV risk reduction behaviours following post-test counselling were also reported by some. CONCLUSIONS Evaluating participants’ experiences of screening for enrolment is important for the design of research that meets ethical requirements and responds to research participants’ fears and concerns for optimal enrolment and retention.