Experiences of a feasibility study of children with albinism in Zimbabwe: a discussion paper.
BACKGROUND
Feasibility studies are often a helpful prelude to constructing fundable research proposals. Where the intended research is in a foreign country, focuses on a vulnerable population, and is aggravated by political and pragmatic challenges, feasibility studies become essential. Albinism, a genetic condition of reduced melanin synthesis, is a major public health issue in southern Africa. Whilst much is known about the health needs of children with albinism, little is understood about how to address these effectively in low income countries. Further, the child care and protection needs of children with albinism are largely unexplored. Zimbabwe's current political and economic climate presents additional challenges to research on the topic.


METHODS
The technical, economic, legal, collaborative, operational, schedule and political feasibilities (acronym TELCOSP) to undertaking a study on children with albinism in Zimbabwe were explored over a six week period of fieldwork in the country.


RESULTS
Using the TELSCOSP framework allowed a deconstruction of each challenge to provide innovative solutions. The economic and legal feasibility aspects presented some difficulties that will require flexibility and perseverance to overcome.


CONCLUSIONS
With the assistance of the local communities and people with albinism in Zimbabwe, the obstacles appear surmountable. The feasibility study provided a productive framework for addressing potential challenges in studying the needs of Zimbabwe's children living with albinism.
Taylor
Julie S
JS
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HJ, UK. j.z.taylor@dundee.ac.uk
Lund
Patricia
P
D000417:Albinism / Q000208:ethnology / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology; D002648:Child; D002651:Child Advocacy; D002669:Child Welfare / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003256:Community Participation; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003906:Developing Countries; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006287:Health Planning Guidelines; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011057:Politics; D002666:Psychology, Child; D011634:Public Health / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012919:Social Behavior; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D035862:Vulnerable Populations; D015030:Zimbabwe / Q000453:epidemiology