P15-27. Community involvement and ethics in HIV vaccine trial in Nigeria

Background

Community involvement and implementation of ethical standard are vital in HIV vaccine trial. There is a need for synergy between community involvement and ethics towards successful trial in Nigeria. This is enhanced through involving community in planning, implementation of protocol and dissemination of research findings. This will give room for communities to understand the benefit of HIV vaccine, and ensure effective participation and partnership.

Methods

Questionnaires were administered to 322 participants in 30 communities in Southwestern Nigeria from August 2007–January 2008. The questionnaires assessed awareness about informed consent, previous research participation, knowledge, willingness and obstacles to participation.

Results

Median age: 32.8 years (range 18–58); male 148 (46%); female 174 (54%); rural dwellers (60%) and urban dwellers (40%). Ever participated in HIV research 66%, No 34%; ever signed an informed consent 26%; previous participation due to financial inducement 22%; willingness to participate in future HIV vaccine trial (64%); No (26%) Don't know (10%); willingness to participate if there is community involvement 91%, willingness to participate if encouraged by community leader/partner 94%. Reasons for refusal to participate: fear 36%, lack of involvement of community head/leader 22%, previous research without community benefit 18% and stigma 10%. Factors that favor participation included: male OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.2–1.9 and age ≤ 40 years OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.4–2.9.

Conclusion

Adequate emphasis should be placed on community involvement and ethical issues in HIV vaccine trial with relevance to planning, study design, informed consent and research accountability. It is important to appreciate factors that influence community mobilization and involvement. Researchers and communities need to have proper understanding of ethical issues. In addition, there is a need to educate communities of the risks and benefits with information that is culturally and scientifically appropriate to promote involvement.