Use of partial least squares path modelling to assess the willingness of Chinese female sex workers to participate in a microbicide trial

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the willingness of Chinese female sex workers (FSWs) to participate (WTP) in a clinical trial of microbicides; to explore the potential hindrances and facilitating factors; and to provide support for future microbicide clinical trials by tailoring their design to better meet the specific needs of FSWs.

Study design: Cross-sectional study.

Methods: In total, 404 FSWs were investigated using structured questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis and partial least squares path modelling were used to explore the correlations between several influencing factors and WTP.

Results: The WTP of FSWs enrolled in this study was high (53.47%, 216/404). Possible benefits from enrolment in the trial were positively associated with WTP, while concern about a hypothetical microbicide, potential physical harm, economic loss from participation, and fear of family or social isolation were negatively associated with WTP.

Conclusion: FSWs are appropriate participants in microbicide clinical trials, and are likely to benefit from effective microbicides. In a microbicide clinical trial, it is imperative to ensure protection of the rights, dignity, safety, confidentiality and welfare of FSW participants.

Keywords: China; Clinical trial; Exploratory factor analysis; Microbicide; Partial least squares path modelling.