An approach to assessing data quality in an area probability survey using CBPR.

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches attempt to engage community members in all aspects of research conducted in the community. Proponents of CBPR suggest that among the many advantages to using CBPR is higher acceptance of and cooperation in research endeavors than is usually achieved through more traditional research approaches. Using secondary analysis of sample disposition data from two area probability surveys of the same community areas, one involving community interviewers in a fully collegial CBPR study and the other using professional interviewers, this study finds that data collected using CBPR techniques may lead to higher cooperation and lower refusal rates than data collected by professional interviewers. However, when compared to external population indicators such as census data, the sample produced by CBPR interviewers overrepresents certain population groups whereas the survey data produced by professional interviewers may underrepresent key population groups.

Exploring opinions and beliefs about cord blood donation among Hispanic and non-Hispanic black women.

BACKGROUND: Despite higher birth rates among non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics, the availability of umbilical cord blood from these groups is lower due to lower donation rates than that of non-Hispanic whites. Similar racial and ethnic disparities in donation rates have been found for blood and organ donation. This study is among the first to explore beliefs and attitudes toward umbilical cord blood donation among Hispanic and non-Hispanic black women. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Five focus groups composed of Hispanic and non-Hispanic black women were conducted to explore how women conceptualize information needs about umbilical cord blood donation and from whom women want to receive information about donation. Participants were adult women who had given birth within the past year or were pregnant. RESULTS: Lack of basic information regarding umbilical cord blood, its harvesting and use, and the steps and conditions necessary to donate were primary barriers to donation. Women expressed confusion over the differences between "donation" and "banking." The social value of donation was explicitly weighed in terms of the cost of the donation effort. Doctors were viewed as critical sources for information about donation, although women expressed skepticism about doctors' ability to convey sufficient information during short office visits. CONCLUSION: Efforts to increase donation rates among Hispanic and non-Hispanic black women should include information about both the technical aspects and the social value of donation. The specific terms "umbilical" and "donation" should be used consistently to prevent misunderstanding. Information should be provided by physicians with follow-up by other health providers.