Web-based data collection: an effective strategy for increasing African Americans' participation in health-related research.

The study sought to explore response modes (via web-based vs paper surveys) and rates to a follow-up health questionnaire and to examine respondent characteristics by response modes. 192 young adult African Americans responded online or by paper. We found observable differences in follow-up responses, with more participants completing the online version first. No statistical differences were revealed in response modes based on academic discipline, sex, income or health status. The 60% followup response rate supports web-based data collection as a viable means of assessing health information from African Americans. This research provides evidence of the Internet as a viable alternative for increasing participation of young African American adults, a relatively understudied group, to obtain data on health status and behaviors, over time.