From "Where Are the Latinos?" to "How to Find Them": A Qualitative Study to Inform Recruitment Efforts in an On-Going Psychosocial Cancer Trial for Dyads of Latina Cancer Survivors and Their Intimate Partners.

Abstract

Background: The underrepresentation of Latino cancer survivors and their intimate partners (IP) in psychosocial cancer trials hinders progress in tackling inequities in cancer prevention and control.

Aims: To explore recruitment and enrollment strategies for LBCS and their IPs into a cancer trial evaluating a psychosocial intervention aiming to improve couples' communication and sexual intimacy.

Methods: This qualitative study applied a structural coding approach and content analysis methodologies to identify emerging themes on LBCS and IP recruitment used to inform active recruitment strategies in an on-going psychosocial cancer trial. Between April and June 2022, 21 LBCS and five IP participated in in-depth interviews and focus groups. Other data sources included community advisory board (CAB) meeting minutes conducted in 2023 and 2024, and on-going feedback from the trial's CAB.

Results: The emerging themes are (1) We want to participate together: LBCS and IP are interested in dyadic cancer navigation; (2) The salient impact of altruism in Latino enrollment decision-making (to enroll vs. not to enroll); (3) Understanding Latino cultural values in the context of recruiting and enrolling Latinos and their IP; and (4) Navigating Latino taboos regarding intimacy and confidentiality for recruiting and enrolling dyads.

Conclusions: Study findings underscore the importance of developing, implementing, and evaluating strategies to recruit Latinos that acknowledge altruism and personalismo, improve trust in research personnel, and promote participation of intimate partners and family members. The findings are being actively implemented in recruitment strategies for an on-going psychosocial cancer trial.