Document is current

Article History

Received: 2 June 2024

Accepted: 4 February 2025

First Online: 11 February 2025

Declarations

:

: This project was approved by the National Ethics Committee for Health Research of Cape Verde (CNEPS), through the deliberation no. 69/2021, and by the Data Protection Commission (CNPD), through the deliberation 173/2021.The study strictly followed the ethical principles of the institutions that promoted this investigation, while ensuring the well-being and safety of all participants. No physical, psychological, or social harm was caused to any of the subjects involved in the study. Before administering the survey, all necessary procedures were followed. Participants were fully informed about the objectives and the purpose of the study. Upon reading and understanding the information provided in the information sheet, only individuals, who freely and willingly chose to take part in the study, proceeded to sign the informed consent form. Each participant received a copy of the signed document, while an additional copy was securely kept at the INSP.To ensure the utmost confidentiality and anonymity of participating individuals, their data were meticulously processed. Each participant was assigned a specific code, safeguarding their identities throughout the study. Participants were informed that they could withdraw from the study at any stage without facing any adverse consequences. Despite this available option, no case of withdrawal was reported after participants signed the consent form. Moreover, it was observed a strict adherence to data protection protocols, adopting the guidelines established by the National Data Protection Commission of Cape Verde.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.