What is BEATS?
- BEATS is a research study that looks at key factors that may lead to episodes of heavy alcohol-consumption using text-based surveys and a wearable smart-wristband that monitors alcohol use. The study is being conducted by UCSF and the San Francisco Department of Public Health.
What does participation look like?
- If you are eligible and choose to enroll in the study, you will come to our office at Market and Van Ness, in San Francisco to receive your smart wristband which you will wear for the duration of the study (1 month). You will also be asked to complete a survey inquiring about your alcohol use and associated behaviors. During your time as a participant, you will have 3 remote visits and 3 in person visits. During the remote visits you will meet with a member of our staff to upload your watch data and troubleshoot any issues. You will also receive daily surveys to your phone. You will be paid for every visit and each daily survey you complete.
How does the wearable wristband work?
- Our study uses a wearable wristband known as BACtrack SKYN. BACtrack was designed to measure the alcohol coming from your sweat. Data from the watch will automatically be uploaded to an app on your cell phone measuring sweat alcohol concentration in real time.
An ecological momentary...what?
- Participants will receive daily surveys to their cell phone asking about alcohol use, current mood, and other related behaviors. The scientific term for these surveys is Ecological Momentary Assessments.
How long is the study?
- The study last for 1 month. Participants will be asked to come in for the screening visit, enrollment visit, and final visit (to return the wristband). In addition, participants are expected to meet once a week over Zoom for a brief video call.
Will I be paid?
- Yes, all participants will be paid for all aspects of the study. For completing the screening visit you will receive $25. You will get $20 for enrolling, $10 for each weekly visit, and $30 for the final visit. Additionally, you will receive $1.50 per daily survey you complete, up to $45. In total, you could receive up to $160 for completing all aspects of the study.
Am I eligible?
- To see if you are eligible, please call 628-217-6333 to answer our prescreening questions. Once you call, we will set up a screening visit for you to come into our office to see if you meet further study criteria. Determining study eligibility involves meeting with our staff, answering questions, and formally consenting to being part of the study.
What if I decide to drop out of the study after enrolling?
- As a study participant, you are free to end your participation at any time. Study staff will work with you to accommodate any difficulties you have in making study visits.
Where can I get more information?
- If you have any questions, you can contact our study team at 628-217-6333 or our study coordinator, Allie Dunham, at 415-940-0772. If you have questions or concerns about about your rights as a research participant, you can call the UCSF Institutional Review Board at 415-476-1814.