HYPOTHESIS: Minority and socio-economic status predict participation of older women in medical research. METHODS: 977 older black (25%), Hispanic (13%), and white women (average age, 73.3) were screened for a placebo-controlled randomized three-year study on the effect of 0.25 mg 17b estradiol on bone density. Self-reported racial/ethnic classification and enrollment status were recorded. Zip code area median household income (1989) was proxy SES measure. Dichotomous dependent variables were eligible vs. ineligible and enrolled vs. uninterested. Predictors were race/ethnic origin (e.g., black vs. others) and low SES (lowest quintile vs. others). RESULTS: 168 (17%) were randomized; 37% were uninterested. 44% of enrollees were minority. A higher proportion of Hispanics (30%) enrolled compared to 18% whites and 13% blacks. In separate models, low SES (when controlling for being black (odds ratios (OR)=.65, p<.01) or Hispanic (OR=.55, p<.05)) and being black (OR=.70, p<.01) decreased odds of eliciting eligible compared to ineligible respondents. Being Hispanic (OR=3.18, p<.001) increased whereas being black (OR=.55, p<.05) decreased the odds of obtaining enrolled compared to uninterested women. When controlling for being black (OR=2.07, p<.01) or white (OR=1.72, p<.05), SES increased odds of eliciting enrolled compared to uninterested women. Interactions between race and SES were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Low SES could hinder enrollment because it predicts higher ineligibility. This potential should be considered when allocating resources for recruitment of disadvantaged populations. Findings suggest conceptually subdividing the population by race/ethnicity and SES, and then tailoring recruitment strategies for each subdivision would be essential to achieving adequate representation in medical research.
Learning Objectives: Assess the influence of race/ethnic origin and SES on recruitment of older minority women in medical research.
Keywords: Minority Health, Aging
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.