Use of social network theory in the recruitment and retention of Latina immigrants

In the midst of an increasing Hispanic/Latino population in the United States, a better understanding of strategies aimed at increasing recruitment and retention in this group for research purposes is essential, particularly among recent Latino immigrants. This presentation will focus on the use of Social Network Theory as the basis for successful recruitment and retention of over 500 Latina immigrants into a group-randomized clinical trial of a cognitive-behavioral intervention to promote primary (sexual risk reduction) and secondary (Pap smear) prevention of cervical cancer. We will also explain how Lay Health Educators (LHE's) helped to implement elements of the Social Network Theory in this study; primarily via LHE identification of the needs and resources needed by the participants. We encountered barriers at three different levels: institutional (e.g., lack of infrastructure and lack of bilingual staff in a state that was not prepared for the rapid influx of Spanish speakers), researcher (e.g., unanticipated time and resource commitment), and individual (e.g., mistrust, “machismo”). How these barriers were overcome (e.g., engagement of the target audience, employment of Lay Health Educators) as well as lessons learned and recommendations will be discussed.