In a multiple award winning research, Dr Muhammed Afolabi of the MRC Unit The Gambia developed a multimedia consent tool for achieving informed consent in low to non –literate settings, where study participants first language is frequently non-written. Informed consent according to the pioneer, Dr Muhammed Afolabi “is a fundamental pre-requisite in clinical research. Obtaining informed consent in a study population where literacy levels are low represents a significant challenge. Electronic consent tools are becoming an established part of clinical research; however, non are aimed at tackling this specific challenge. This new invention was designed specifically to address this need.”

The technology communicates both trial specific and general concepts in a modular format and is suitable for the communication of this information in multiple languages. The process ensures that participants entering into clinical research do so freely and with full knowledge and comprehension of the study process as well as its risks and benefits.

In a pilot study, the tool has demonstrated to increase comprehension from 40% to 60%, elicited a statistical significant increase in recall and understanding leading to high levels of participants satisfaction.

This newly invented multimedia tool, presents features which has significant benefits and advantages:
• Modular tool with trial specific and generic aspects
• Improves comprehension by >50%
• Greater retention of information
• Clear participants satisfaction

Licensing options
We are looking for partners for collaborative development of this technology, which is also available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.

If you would like further information about this technology or alternative MRC Technology developments, please contact.

Mike Bond, PhD
Business Manager
Tel. +44 (0)20 7391 2727
mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.uk
MRC TECHNOLOGY
Lynton House
7-12 Tavistock Square
London
WC1H 9LT
United Kingdom
mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.uk

Read more about Dr Afolabi’s research on:
• mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.uk

mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.uk African research population: Development and psychometric evaluation. BMJ Open. 4 (6): e004817

• mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.uk J Clin Res Bioeth. 5(3):178. doi:10.4172/2155-9627.1000178

• mailto:michael.bond@tech.mrc.ac.ukTrop Med & Int Health. 19(6):625-642