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Application of the Respondent-Driven Sampling methodology in a biological and behavioral surveillance survey among female sex workers, Brazil, 2016

Authors :
Giseli Nogueira Damacena
Célia Landmann Szwarcwald
Paulo Roberto Borges de Souza Júnior
Orlando da Costa Ferreira Júnior
Wanessa da Silva de Almeida
Ana Roberta Pati Pascom
Maria Cristina Pimenta
Source :
Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia, Vol 22, Iss suppl 1
Publisher :
Associação Brasileira de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Respondent-Driven Sampling (RDS) has been used in surveys with key populations at risk of HIV infection, such as female sex workers (FSW). This article describes the application of the RDS method among FSW in 12 Brazilian cities, during a survey carried out in 2016. Methodology: A biological and behavioral surveillance study carried out in 12 Brazilian cities, with a minimum sample of 350 FSW in each city. Tests were performed for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C infections. A social-behavioral questionnaire was also applied. Results: The sample was comprised of 4,328 FSW. For data analysis, the sample was weighted according to each participant’s network size (due consideration to the implications of RDS complex design and to the effects of homophilia are recommended). Discussion: Although RDS methods for obtaining a statistical sample are based on strong statistical assumptions, allowing for an estimation of statistical parameters, with each new application the method has been rethought. In the analysis of whole-sample data, estimators were robust and compatible with those found in 2009. However, there were significant variations according to each city. Conclusion: The achieved sample size was of great relevance for assessing progress and identifying problems regarding the prevention and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections. New RDS studies with more time and operational resources should be envisaged. This could further network development.

Details

Language :
English, Portuguese
ISSN :
19805497
Volume :
22
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.69b60bf3217426ebf2df7f5a483d540
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-549720190002.supl.1