A protocol for a multi-site, spatially-referenced household survey in slum settings: methods for access, sampling frame construction, sampling, and field data collection
- PMID: 31146676
- PMCID: PMC6543601
- DOI: 10.1186/s12874-019-0732-x
A protocol for a multi-site, spatially-referenced household survey in slum settings: methods for access, sampling frame construction, sampling, and field data collection
Abstract
Background: Household surveys are a key epidemiological, medical, and social research method. In poor urban environments, such as slums, censuses can often be out-of-date or fail to record transient residents, maps may be incomplete, and access to sites can be limit, all of which prohibits obtaining an accurate sampling frame. This article describes a method to conduct a survey in slum settings in the context of the NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Improving Health in Slums project.
Methods: We identify four key steps: obtaining site access, generation of a sampling frame, sampling, and field data collection. Stakeholder identification and engagement is required to negotiate access. A spatially-referenced sampling frame can be generated by: remote participatory mapping from satellite imagery; local participatory mapping and ground-truthing; and identification of all residents of each structure. We propose to use a spatially-regulated sampling method to ensure spatial coverage across the site. Finally, data collection using tablet devices and open-source software can be conducted using the generated sample and maps.
Discussion: Slums are home to a growing population who face some of the highest burdens of disease yet who remain relatively understudied. Difficulties conducting surveys in these locations may explain this disparity. We propose a generalisable, scientifically valid method that is sustainable and ensures community engagement.
Keywords: GIS; Sampling; Slum; Survey.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Figures


References
-
- The DHS Program . Demographic and health surveys (DHS) 2018.
-
- Emina J, Beguy D, Zulu EM, Ezeh AC, Muindi K, Elung’ata P, et al. Monitoring of health and demographic outcomes in poor urban settlements: evidence from the Nairobi urban health and demographic surveillance system. J Urban Health. 2011;88:200–218. doi: 10.1007/s11524-011-9594-1. - DOI - PMC - PubMed
-
- UN Habitat. The challenge of the slums: global report on human settlements 2003. London: UN-Habitat; 2010. https://unhabitat.org/books/the-challenge-of-slums-global-report-on-huma....
Publication types
MeSH terms
LinkOut - more resources
Full Text Sources