Background: As part of a project to learn more about barriers to HIV testing, we designed and implemented a sampling plan to reach a representative cross-section of persons at risk for HIV infection in Philadelphia. We went right to the streets in 8 communities in Philadelphia hard hit by the AIDS epidemic, a strategy which enabled us to recruit participants diverse in regard to race and ethnicity, geography, and risk profile. Methods: A two-stage sampling procedure was used to ensure a random selection of community sites and participants. In the first stage, target areas were canvassed for "microsites" such as bars, hangout corners, open-air drug markets, laundromats, and stores. All potential sites were enumerated, and then fifty microsites were chosen, using a weighted random sampling method that made locations with riskier populations more likely to be selected. In the second stage of the sampling process, interviewers approached potential participants at the chosen microsites, using a specified random selection process. Adults who reported engaging in at least one identified risk behavior were invited to complete the survey instrument. Conclusions: Random selection procedures can successfully be employed to recruit participants with varying levels and types of risk for HIV infection. Preliminary analysis of 420 cases shows that over 4 out of 5 of those recruited were eligible; 60% of these engaged in more than one identified risk behavior. This poster will present a sampling plan that can be adapted for other studies of HIV risk.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this poster session, the participants will be able to use our model to develop a community sampling plan to reach a representative sample of persons at risk for HIV infection
Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Community Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.