Open AccessPotential Bias in the Bank: What Distinguishes Refusers, Nonresponders and Participants in a Clinic-Based Biobank?
Author(s) -
Jennifer L. Ridgeway,
Leona C. Han,
Janet E. Olson,
Kandace A. Lackore,
Barbara A. Koenig,
Timothy J. Beebe,
Jeanette Y. Ziegenfuss
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
public health genomics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.701
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1662-8063
pISSN - 1662-4246
DOI - 10.1159/000349924
Subject(s) - biobank , medicine , ethnic group , demography , phone , family medicine , gerontology , bioinformatics , linguistics , philosophy , sociology , anthropology , biology
Biobanks are an important resource for genetic and epidemiologic research, but bias may be introduced if those who accept the recruitment invitation differ systematically from those who do not in terms of attributes important to health-related investigations. To understand potential bias in a clinic-based biobank of biological samples, including genetic data linked to electronic health record information, we compared patient characteristics and self-reported information among participants, nonresponders and refusers. We also compared reasons for nonparticipation between refusers and nonresponders to elucidate potential pathways to reduce nonparticipation and any uncovered bias.