Objectives: This study reviewed a consumer-oriented process for recruiting research volunteers age 65 or older for an osteoporosis clinical trial. Methods: Odds ratios were used to estimate the relative importance of methods to enroll research volunteers from three racial or ethnic groups. Results: Nine hundred and four women were screened; 168 African American, White, and Hispanic women enrolled. Mailings and media were effective when the target population was large and knowledgeable about the disease and treatment being investigated. Efficiency of mailings was increased when individuals in the mailing list were familiar with research and the research center. An interpersonal approach was more effective than a media-based approach when the target population was small, unaware of their personal risk of the disease, and unfamiliar with research and research center. Discussion: Information on the characteristics of potential volunteers and their communities will enable readers to evaluate the applicability of recruitment methods used.
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