Tracing migrant farmworkers in Starr County, Texas

Abstract

Background: In response to The National Cancer Institute (NCI) concerns about the ability to conduct studies among migrant farmworkers, this study evaluated the feasibility of identifying migrant farmworkers in their home state and tracing them over an extended period of time.

Methods: In 1995, a group of 196 persons who had classified themselves as "migrant farmworkers" in two earlier chronic disease studies was identified. The primary objective of the current study was to determine the proportion of these farmworkers who could be located in 1995-1996.

Results: Of these farmworkers, 163 were located and were living (83.2%), 15 had died (7.6%), and 18 (9.2%) were lost to follow-up.

Conclusions: The excellent follow-up rate was due in part to the high participation rates among persons contacted for information, stability of the farmworkers' permanent homes, predictable timing of migration, and a longstanding health research program with established community contacts.