Community-informed trial design and implementation to optimize recruitment and retention in low-income settings: lessons from rheumatic heart disease trials in Uganda

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Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) affects over 54.8 million people and causes more than 370,000 deaths annually, particularly impacting children and young adults.
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The RHD Research Collaborative in Uganda (RRCU) developed a community-centered framework for trial design that enhances recruitment and retention in low-income areas.
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RRCU's approach includes group-based consent, personalized communication, and family-friendly participation structures, leading to high consent and retention rates.
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The GOAL trial achieved over 99% consent and retention rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of community engagement in clinical trials.
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RRCU's iterative community-informed approach allows for ongoing consultation and adaptation, addressing local needs and enhancing trial feasibility.

Frontiers In Cardiovascular Medicine

by Juliet Alepere, Susan Akullo, Pamela Okwir Apio, Brenda Atim, Andrea Beaton, Anneke Grobler, Samalie Kitooleko, Haddy Nalubwama, Emma Ndagire, Emmy Okello, Isaac Otim Omara, Jafes Pulle, Joselyn Rwebembera, Craig Sable, Amy Scheel, Alison Spaziani, Andrew Steer, Rachel Sarnacki
July 13, 2026

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