Recruitment strategies and participant motivations in a digital randomized controlled trial for the prevention of anxiety disorders: the prevANS study - Report - MDSpire
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Recruitment strategies and participant motivations in a digital randomized controlled trial for the prevention of anxiety disorders: the prevANS study
Clinical Report: Strategies for Participant Recruitment in Digital Trials
Overview
The prevANS study evaluated various recruitment strategies for a digital preventive intervention aimed at anxiety disorders, achieving a 17.5% conversion rate from screening to enrollment. Key findings highlighted the effectiveness of social media and university dissemination, as well as participant motivations for enrollment.
Background
Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and contribute significantly to global disease burden, affecting over 300 million people. Despite effective treatments, many individuals do not receive adequate care due to barriers such as stigma and lack of information. Digital interventions present a scalable solution, but participant recruitment remains a challenge.
The study enrolled 1,054 participants over 26 months, achieving a 17.5% conversion rate.
Social media and university dissemination were the most effective recruitment strategies.
Word of mouth significantly influenced participant recruitment.
The final sample was predominantly women and highly educated individuals.
Three main motivations for enrollment included helping others, health-related issues, and personal benefits.
Clinical Implications
Tailoring recruitment strategies to the target population is essential for enhancing enrollment in digital trials. Understanding participant motivations can inform the design of more effective recruitment campaigns.
Conclusion
The prevANS study underscores the importance of strategic recruitment in digital interventions for anxiety prevention, highlighting the need for user involvement in the process.
