Barriers and Facilitators of Engaging Pregnant African American and Hispanic Women into Research

African American and Hispanic pregnant women are underrepresented in research and at a higher risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and of COVID-19 infection. The purpose of this study is to evaluate factors affecting pregnant African American and Hispanic women’s participation in research and assess social media as a recruitment tool, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods included creating a 63-item survey tool asking pregnant African American and Hispanic women about their perception of research in the midst of the pandemic. A total of 100 women were recruited through social media alone. Participants showed more interest in non-invasive studies. 94% reported they have access to COVID-19 testing. However, 75% do not have access to childcare and 57% do not have access to transportation.

Results from this detail the barriers of recruiting pregnant African American and Hispanic women in research: lack of knowledge, limited access to resources, and concerns of safety during COVID-19.