Main Article Content

Adolescent experiences in a vaccine trial: A pilot study


A Abrams
N Siegfried
H Geldenhuys

Abstract

Little is known about how adolescents experience clinical trials. We assessed  the experiences of South African adolescent participants in a clinical trial,  employing semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data on the  experiences and effects of trial participation. Despite misunderstanding certain concepts regarding assent and trial processes subsequent to  enrolment, participants reported positive experiences overall. Subjects’ motivations for participation included: an ability to help others; receipt of healthcare; and free blood screening. Participants expressed fears associated with trial procedures, such as phlebotomy; however, these apprehensions
diminished as the trial progressed. We found that conducting qualitative research within a trial site is feasible, and can provide insight into the uptake and acceptability of interventions.

S Afr Med J 2011;101:884-886.

Journal Identifiers


eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574