ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the feasibility of hair testing in a community sample, using data from one of the first studies to employ a hair test within the context of a household survey on drug use. It also examines overall rates of consent to the procedure and distinguish between respondents who were ineligible and respondents who were unwilling to participate. The chapter summarizes data examining subject reaction to the request to participate in this procedure. In particular, it examines the overall level of uneasiness with the request as well as subject characteristics that are associated with high levels of uneasiness. In order to gain more insight into the rationale behind refusal, the chapter explains subject comments regarding the reason for nonparticipation. It discusses the implications for future studies incorporating drug testing in community surveys. The findings suggest limitations with respect to the feasibility of hair testing in community studies of subjects at high risk for drug use.
