End-user research into understanding perceptions of and reactions to a microarray patch (MAP) for contraception among women in Ghana, Kenya and Uganda.

Introduction: Many organizations are developing new contraceptive products and approaches that promote self-care including a microarray patch (MAP) that has the potential for self-administration with appropriate training. We studied women's perceptions of the MAP technology with the primary goal of providing feedback on product attributes to inform early technical design decisions regarding various MAP contraceptive products in development by MAP developers. Methods: Our study consisted of a qualitative phase with in-person In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) with a total of 60 women of reproductive age (WRA) and quantitative surveys, via face-to-face computer-assisted interviews of a total of 927 women in Ghana, Kenya and Uganda. Women's perceptions on 12 attributes of the MAP were assessed through written descriptions, a profile, and visual stimuli such as graphics and images. Results: Overall, the most widely preferred attribute set included: a hand-applied MAP, utilizing one circular patch, with a sticky backing, no larger than 2 cm diameter in size, applied by self, to the arm, offering sensory feedback (clicking sound and/or color change signals) to confirm enough pressure, successful application and removal, lasting 6 months with up to 12 months return to natural state of fertility. There is space to allow for variation in MAP designs (including the use of an applicator or provider administered MAP) if the design promotes and reflects the needs and expectations of users and providers. Discussion: The contraceptive MAP had a high and broad level of appeal amongst all groups of women who participated in the study and has a strong value proposition around important contraceptive needs such as ease of use, convenience, and discretion.

Gender Differences in Eating Disorder Risk among NCAA Division I Cross Country and Track Student-Athletes.

PURPOSE: This study compared gender differences in eating disorder risk among NCAA Division I cross country and track distance running student-athletes. METHODS: Six hundred thirty-eight male and female student-athletes competing at distances of 800m or greater completed the Eating Disorder Screen for Primary Care (ESP). Scores on the ESP were used as the risk of eating disorders. RESULTS: Females screened positive at higher rates for risk of eating disorders than males on the ESP at a cutoff of 2 (sensitivity 90-100%, specificity 71%) with rates of 45.95% ± 3.03 and 13.66% ± 1.80, respectively. Females were also screened positive at higher rates than males at a stricter cutoff of 3 (sensitivity 81%, specificity 92%), with rates of 21.69% ± 2.50 compared to 4.64% ± 1.10, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study highlights that, among distance runners, both males and females are at risk of eating disorders, with females being at higher risk. It also emphasizes the need for screening for risk of eating disorders in this population.