Understanding Informed Consent Among Parents in Northern Ghana
Author Information
Author(s): Oduro Abraham R, Aborigo Raymond A, Amugsi Dickson, Anto Francis, Anyorigiya Thomas, Atuguba Frank, Hodgson Abraham, Koram Kwadwo A
Primary Institution: Navrongo Health Research Centre, Ghana Health Service
Hypothesis
How well do parents in rural northern Ghana understand and retain the informed consent process for research involving their children?
Conclusion
Parents in northern Ghana show significant but varied comprehension of the informed consent process for research involving their children.
Supporting Evidence
- 90% of parents knew their children were involved in a research study not related to medical care.
- 66% said the study procedures were thoroughly explained to them.
- 70% recalled the study involved direct benefits compared to 20% for direct risks.
- 95% understood study participation was completely voluntary.
- Only 21% recalled they could withdraw from the study without giving reasons.
Takeaway
This study found that many parents in northern Ghana understand the consent process for research, but some still have questions about it.
Methodology
The study involved semi-structured interviews with 270 female parents about their understanding of the informed consent process.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the reliance on self-reported understanding and retention of information.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to the entire community due to the specific demographic of participants.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily female parents, average age 33.3 years, mostly married, Christian, and farmers, with a significant portion having no formal education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI 10.7, 19.6
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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