What sampling approach is most appropriate to collect sensitive information when target populations may not be accessible? RDS is a relatively new sampling methodology that is currently being used in numerous countries to assess HIV/STI prevalence and risk factors in Biological-Behavioral Surveys of populations considered to be at higher risk (men who have sex with men, sex workers and injecting drug users). RDS has been used as a ground breaking method in a current study among ‘sugar daddies’ in the Western Cape, South Africa. [The phenomenon where young persons exchanging favours (including sex) with older men, for money, presents and other comforts] This workshop aims to present the latest information and practical experience in planning and conducting RDS studies and in understanding related data issues. Lisa Johnston is a consultant with the Centers for Disease Control, Family Health International, the World Bank, and the United Nations Development Programme. She has spent more than three years providing technical assistance to RDS projects in over 20 countries around the world. The workshop is hosted by SAHA and will be held on the 24 January 2007 from 10h00 – 15h00 in the Video Conferencing Rooms of Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban. |
