scholarly journals Recruitment via social media: advantages and potential biases

2019 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. 205520761986722 ◽  
Author(s):  
Catherine Benedict ◽  
Alexandria L Hahn ◽  
Michael A Diefenbach ◽  
Jennifer S Ford

Background Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors are under-represented in research. Social media is increasingly used for recruitment given its ability to reach large audiences. Differences in participant characteristics and potential biases due to recruitment source are not well understood. Purpose This study aimed to: (a) compare recruitment strategies (hospital-based v. social media) in enrollment metrics, and (b) among enrolled participants, evaluate group differences in patient characteristics and patient reported outcomes (PROs). Methods Preliminary data from a cancer and fertility study with female AYAs were evaluated. Hospital-based recruitment used electronic medical records (EMR) to identify eligible patients. Social media recruitment involved posting on partner organizations’ social media outlets. PROs included validated measures related to the parent study. Descriptive statistics evaluated recruitment metrics. Independent samples t-tests and chi-square identified differences in participant characteristics and PROs based on recruitment. Results Social media yielded a higher enrollment rate (37%; n = 54/146) compared with hospital-based recruitment (7%; n = 21/289) and required fewer study resources. Compared with hospital-based recruitment, participants from social media were more likely to be White ( p = 0.01), with a longer time since treatment ( p = 0.03); and reported higher levels of reproductive concern ( p = 0.004) and negative mood ( p = 0.02), and more negative illness perceptions ( ps < 0.05). Conclusion Recruitment via social media may be a more effective and efficient strategy compared with hospital-based methods. However, group differences were identified that could bias findings and limit generalizability. Advantages of social media should be considered with an understanding of how methodology may impact enrollment and results.

2018 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 605-616 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cathy L Melvin ◽  
Anissa I Vines ◽  
Allison M Deal ◽  
Holly O Pierce ◽  
William R Carpenter ◽  
...  

Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the USA. In 2017, an estimated 135,420 people were diagnosed with CRC and 50,260 people died from CRC. Several screening modalities are recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), including annual stool tests that are usually completed at home and under-used compared with colonoscopy despite stated patient preferences for an alternative to colonoscopy. The Community Preventive Services Task Force recommends use of small media interventions (SMIs) to increase CRC screening and calls for a greater understanding of its independent impact on screening participation. This study tested whether a SMI increased the likelihood of participant return of a USPSTF recommended Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT). In total, 804 individuals participated in a two-group, prospective randomized controlled trial. Descriptive statistics with chi-square tests compared differences in participant characteristics and return rates. Multivariable log-binomial modeling estimated combined effects of patient characteristics with FIT return rates. No differences in return rates were observed overall or by participant characteristics other than the year of enrollment. A multivariable model controlling for all covariates, found gender, insurance type, and regular place for healthcare to be significantly associated with return rates. Receipt of the SMI did not independently increase overall return rates but it may have improved the ease of completing the FIT by some participants, particularly women, those with insurance, and those with a regular place for healthcare.


Rheumatology ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stan C Kieskamp ◽  
Davy Paap ◽  
Marlies J G Carbo ◽  
Freke Wink ◽  
Reinhard Bos ◽  
...  

Abstract Objectives Many patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) report persistent pain even when treated with anti-inflammatory agents. Our aim was to explore the presence of central sensitization (CS) and different types of illness perceptions in patients with axSpA, and to assess their associations with disease activity assessments. Methods Consecutive outpatients from the Groningen Leeuwarden Axial Spondyloarthritis (GLAS) cohort were included. Besides standardized assessments, patients filled out the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to investigate the association between questionnaire scores, patient characteristics and disease activity assessments ASDASCRP, BASDAI and CRP. Results We included 182 patients with a mean symptom duration of 21.6 years. Mean ASDASCRP was 2.1, mean BASDAI 3.9, and median CRP 2.9. Mean CSI score was 37.8 (scale 0–100) and 45% of patients scored ≥40, indicating a high probability of CS. CSI score, IPQ-R domain identity (number of symptoms the patient attributes to their illness), and IPQ-R domain treatment control (perceived treatment efficacy), and obesity were significantly and independently associated with both ASDASCRP and BASDAI, explaining a substantial proportion of variation in these disease activity scores (R2=0.35 and R2=0.47, respectively). Only obesity was also independently associated with CRP. Conclusion CS may be common in patients with long-term axSpA. CS, as well as specific illness perceptions and obesity were all independently associated with the widely used (partially) patient-reported disease activity assessments ASDASCRP and BASDAI. Treating physicians should take this into account in the follow-up and treatment of their patients.


2020 ◽  
Vol 37 (09) ◽  
pp. 890-897
Author(s):  
Ilina D. Pluym ◽  
Bettina Paek ◽  
Martin Walker ◽  
Hui Liu ◽  
Lorna Kwan ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective This study aims to evaluate the utility of social media to distribute a patient survey on differences in management and outcomes of monochorionic–diamniotic (MCDA) pregnancies. Study Design A cross-sectional survey was posted to an English-language MCDA twins patient-centered support group within the social media site, Facebook from April 2, 2018 to June 26, 2018. Subjects were recruited through a technique called “snowballing,” whereby individuals shared the survey to assist with recruiting. Patient reported data were analyzed using Chi-square and Kruskal–Wallis's tests to explore characteristics associated with surveillance and outcomes as related to region and provider type. Results Over 3 months, the post “reached” 14,288 Facebook users, among which 5,653 (40%) clicked on the post. A total of 2,357 respondents with MCDA pregnancies completed the survey. Total 1,928 (82%) were from the United States (US) and 419 (18%) from other countries. Total 85% of patients had co-management with maternal–fetal medicine (MFM), more in the US compared with the rest of the world (87 vs. 74%, p < 0.01). MFM involvement led to increased adherence to biweekly ultrasounds (91 vs. 65%, p < 0.01), diagnosis of monochorionicity by 12 weeks (74 vs. 69%, p < 0.01) and better education about twin–twin transfusion syndrome (90 vs. 66%, p < 0.01). Pregnancies with MFM involvement had a higher take-home baby rate for both babies (92 vs. 89%, p < 0.01) or for at least one baby (98 vs. 93%, p < 0.01) compared with those without MFM involvement. Conclusion A survey distributed via social media can be effective in evaluating real-life management and outcomes of an uncommon obstetrical diagnosis. This survey elucidates wide international variation in adherence to guidelines, management, and outcomes.


2021 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Samantha Rodriguez ◽  
Tammy Sajdyk ◽  
Jamie Renbarger

Background and Hypothesis: Due to improved multidrug treatments over the past 40 years, the 5-year survival rate for children diagnosed with cancer has increased from approximately 60% to 85%. However, these treatments also cause long-term health issues, so patients must be equipped with adequate information regarding potential future complications. Only 18% of survivors report follow-up visits to a physician to discuss reducing risks resulting from their cancer, thus, there is a huge gap in health education for this population. To address this gap, a questionnaire was developed to collect data on the critical concerns adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors have regarding wellness. We hypothesize that this survey will allow for healthcare workers to have a greater understanding of the wellness needs of AYA cancer survivors and aid in the development of an educational program that can be delivered in a manner that is acceptable to the AYA survivor population.   Project Methods: A 5-point Likert scale survey was created to gather information on topics such as diet, exercise, body image, relationships, and social media. Additional questions that gather data on background information were also asked. This survey will be distributed to subjects who have recovered from cancer and are between the ages of 18 and 39. After data has been collected, statistical tests such as Spearman’s correlation and chi-square tests for independence will be used to find correlations.   Expected Results: Results from this survey will be useful in understanding the experiences of AYA cancer survivors, how they view their wellness needs, and how they prefer to receive healthcare information.  Potential Impact: The data from this study will inform oncology providers as to which health concerns the AYA survivor population find most important and how best to deliver that information so survivors can receive better management of their long-term health.  


2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 9
Author(s):  
Yunita Mansyah Lestari ◽  
Suzy Yusna Dewi ◽  
Aulia Chairani

ABSTRAK   Alexithymia ditandai dengan ketidakmampuan dalam mengenali dan mengekpresikan emosi serta pemikiran yang berorientasi eksternal sehingga mereka memiliki hubungan interpersonal yang buruk. Remaja dengan alexithymia cenderung menjadi kecanduan media sosial.Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara Alexithymia terhadap kecanduan media sosial pada remaja di Jakarta Selatan. Subjek penelitian adalah remaja yang berusia 13-19 tahun dan tinggal di Jakarta selatan. Pengambilan data menggunakan metode consecutive sampling dan snowball sampling dengan menyebar kuesioner menggunakan link googleform. Jumlah subjek penelitian sebanyak 207 orang (41 = laki-laki, 166 = perempuan). Skala yang digunakan adalah Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) dan Social Media Disorder (SMD). Analisa data menggunakan metode chi-square pada SPSS 25. Hasil penelitian didapatkan 85 orang mengalami alexithymia, 88 mengalami kecanduan dan 62 orang mengalami alexithymia dan kecanduan media sosial. p-value didapatkan 0,000. Hal ini berarti terdapat hubungan antara Alexithymia dengan Kecanduan Media Sosial pada remaja di Jakarta Selatan. Kata Kunci :Alexithymia, Kecanduan Media Sosial, Remaja     ABSTRACT   Alexithymia is characterized by an inability to recognize and express emotions and have external oriented thoughts so that they have poor interpersonal relationships. Teenagers with alexithymial tend to become addicted to social media. This study aims to determine the relationship between Alexithymia towards social media addiction in adolescents in South Jakarta. The research subjects were adolescents aged 13-19 years and lived in south Jakarta. Retrieval of the data was using consecutive sampling and snowball sampling method by distributing questionnaires using the googleform link. The number of research subjects was 207 people (41 = men, 166 = women). The scale was used is the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and Social Media Disorder (SMD). Data analysis using the chi-square method in SPSS 25. The results showed that 85 people had alexithymia, 88 were addicted and 62 people had alexithymia and were addicted to social media. p-value obtained is 0,000. This means that there is a relationship between Alexithymia and Social Media Addiction in adolescents in South Jakarta. Keyword : Adolescents, Alexithymia, Social Media Addiction


2021 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 825-836
Author(s):  
Morgan Young-Speirs ◽  
Caitlin Forbes ◽  
Michaela Patton ◽  
K. Brooke Russell ◽  
Mehak Stokoe ◽  
...  

Survivors of childhood cancer (SCCs) are at increased risk of late effects, which are cancer- and treatment-related side-effects that are experienced months to years post-treatment and encapsulate a range of physical, cognitive and emotional problems including secondary malignancies. Perceived health can serve as an indicator of overall health. This study aims to (1) understand how a patient reported outcome (PRO) of perceived health of SCCs compares to controls who have not had a cancer diagnosis and (2) examine the relationships between perceived health and demographic and clinical variables, and health behavior. A total of 209 SCCs (n = 113 (54.10%) males; median age at diagnosis = 6.50 years; median time off treatment = 11.10 years; mean age at study = 19.00 years) were included. SCCs completed annual assessments as part of Long-Term Survivor Clinic appointments, including a question on perceived health answered on a five-point Likert scale. Data were collected retrospectively from medical charts. Perceived health of SCCs was compared to a control group (n = 836) using data from the 2014 Canadian Community Health Survey. Most SCCs (67%) reported excellent or very good health. The mean perceived health of SCCs (2.15 ± 0.91) was not statistically different from population controls (2.10 ± 0.87). Pain (B = 0.35; p < 0.001), physical activity (B = −0.39; p = 0.013) and concerns related to health resources (B = 0.59; p = 0.002) were significant predictors of perceived health. Factors shown to influence SCCs’ perceived health may inform interventions. Exploration into how SCCs develop their conception of health may be warranted.


2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (7) ◽  
pp. 1527
Author(s):  
Jamie Duckers ◽  
Beth Lesher ◽  
Teja Thorat ◽  
Eleanor Lucas ◽  
Lisa J. McGarry ◽  
...  

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare, progressive, multi-organ genetic disease. Ivacaftor, a small-molecule CF transmembrane conductance regulator modulator, was the first medication to treat the underlying cause of CF. Since its approval, real-world clinical experience on the use of ivacaftor has been documented in large registries and smaller studies. Here, we systematically review data from real-world observational studies of ivacaftor treatment in people with CF (pwCF). Searches of MEDLINE and Embase identified 368 publications reporting real-world studies that enrolled six or more pwCF treated with ivacaftor published between January 2012 and September 2019. Overall, 75 publications providing data from 57 unique studies met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Studies reporting within-group change for pwCF treated with ivacaftor consistently showed improvements in lung function, nutritional parameters, and patient-reported respiratory and sino-nasal symptoms. Benefits were evident as early as 1 month following ivacaftor initiation and were sustained over long-term follow-up. Decreases in pulmonary exacerbations, Pseudomonas aeruginosa prevalence, and healthcare resource utilization also were reported for up to 66 months following ivacaftor initiation. In studies comparing ivacaftor treatment to modulator untreated comparator groups, clinical benefits similarly were reported as were decreases in mortality, organ-transplantation, and CF-related complications. The safety profile of ivacaftor observed in these real-world studies was consistent with the well-established safety profile based on clinical trial data. Our systematic review of real-world studies shows ivacaftor treatment in pwCF results in highly consistent and sustained clinical benefit in both pulmonary and non-pulmonary outcomes across various geographies, study designs, patient characteristics, and follow-up durations, confirming and expanding upon evidence from clinical trials.


Hand ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 155894472097412
Author(s):  
Ali Aneizi ◽  
Dominique Gelmann ◽  
Dominic J. Ventimiglia ◽  
Patrick M. J. Sajak ◽  
Vidushan Nadarajah ◽  
...  

Background: The objectives of this study were to determine the baseline patient characteristics associated with preoperative opioid use and to establish whether preoperative opioid use is associated with baseline patient-reported outcome measures in patients undergoing common hand surgeries. Methods: Patients undergoing common hand surgeries from 2015 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed from a prospective orthopedic registry at a single academic institution. Medical records were reviewed to determine whether patients were opioid users versus nonusers. On enrollment in the registry, patients completed 6 Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) domains (Physical Function, Pain Interference, Fatigue, Social Satisfaction, Anxiety, and Depression), the Brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (BMHQ), a surgical expectations questionnaire, and Numeric Pain Scale (NPS). Statistical analysis included multivariable regression to determine whether preoperative opioid use was associated with patient characteristics and preoperative scores on patient-reported outcome measures. Results: After controlling for covariates, an analysis of 353 patients (opioid users, n = 122; nonusers, n = 231) showed that preoperative opioid use was associated with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class (odds ratio [OR], 2.88), current smoking (OR, 1.91), and lower body mass index (OR, 0.95). Preoperative opioid use was also associated with significantly worse baseline PROMIS scores across 6 domains, lower BMHQ scores, and NPS hand scores. Conclusions: Preoperative opioid use is common in hand surgery patients with a rate of 35%. Preoperative opioid use is associated with multiple baseline patient characteristics and is predictive of worse baseline scores on patient-reported outcome measures. Future studies should determine whether such associations persist in the postoperative setting between opioid users and nonusers.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rebecca Smith ◽  
Crystal Alvarez ◽  
Sylvia Crixell ◽  
Michelle A. Lane

Abstract Background It is well known that recruitment is a challenging aspect of any study involving human subjects. This challenge is exacerbated when the population sought is reticent to participate in research as is the case with pregnant women and individuals with depression. This paper compares recruitment methods used for the Food, Feelings, and Family Study, an observational, longitudinal pilot study concerning how diet and bisphenol A exposure affect maternal mood and cognitive function during and after pregnancy. Methods Pregnant women were recruited to this study over a period of 15 months using traditional methods, social media including paid and unpaid posts, and emails broadcast to the university community. Contingency analysis using the Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to determine if recruitment method was associated with likelihood of participation. T-tests were used to analyze Facebook advertisement success. ANOVAs and Fisher exact tests were used to determine if recruitment method was related to continuous and categorical demographics, respectively. Results Social media resulted in the largest number of recruits, followed by traditional methods and broadcast email. Women recruited through social media were less likely to participate. In contrast, use of broadcast email resulted in a smaller pool of recruits but these recruits were more likely to be eligible for and complete the study. Most women recruited via social media were the result of unpaid posts to the study’s Facebook page. Paid posts lasting at least 4 days were the most successful. Recruitment method was not associated with participant demographics. Conclusions Social media has the potential to recruit a large pool of potential subjects; however, when studies require a large time investment such as the case here, women recruited through social media are less likely to participate and complete the study than women recruited through other means. Trial registration N/A. This study does not describe a health care intervention.


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