JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

There is need for more timely data to inform interventions that address the growing non-communicable disease (NCD) epidemic. With the global increase in mobile phone ownership, mobile phone surveys can bridge this gap.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the acceptability and use of interactive voice response (IVR) surveys for surveillance of NCD behavioral risk factors in rural Uganda.

Methods:

This qualitative study employed User Group Testing (UGTs) with community members from the Iganga-Mayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance Site (IM-HDSS) in Eastern Uganda. Participants were individually sent an IVR survey then were brought in for a group discussion using a semi-structured guide. We conducted four UGTs which consisted of HDSS members: 1) females living in urban areas, 2) males living in urban areas, 3) females living in rural areas, and 4) males living in rural areas. Data were analyzed thematically using directed content analysis

Results:

Overall, participants showed a positive attitude towards using IVR surveys for NCD risk factor surveillance. Participants perceived that IVR surveys may be useful in promoting confidentiality, saving costs, and raising awareness on NCD behavioral risk factors. Due to the clarity and delivery of questions in the local language, the IVR survey was perceived as easy to use. Community members suggested scheduling surveys on specific days and sending reminders as ways to improve their use for surveillance. Social issues such as domestic violence and perceptions towards unknown calls; technological factors including poor network connections and inability to use phones; and personal issues such as lack of access to phones and use of multiple networks were identified as barriers to the acceptability and use of mobile phone surveys. However, incentives were reported to motivate people to complete the survey.

Conclusions:

Community members reflected on contextual and sociological implications of using mobile phones for surveillance of NCD behavioral risk factors. The opportunities and challenges that affect acceptability and use of IVR surveys should be considered in designing and implementing surveillance programs for NCD risk factors.