The Knowledge and Behavior of Hairdressers and Barbers on Blood-Borne Diseases

OZET Objective: Our purpose was to investigate the level of knowledge of hairdressers, barbers, manicurists and pedicurists who could easily get infected with certain blood-borne pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 147 barbers/hairdressers in the Adiyaman Province. Questionnaires were completed by the participants before the seminar in the training program co-prepared by Adiyaman Provincial Directorate of Health and the Chamber of Artisans. Those questionnaires completed by the participants were prepared after literature reviews. Results: Thirty-six participants gave the correct answer to the question which was if HIV + HBV + HCV are the blood-borne pathogens. 72.9% of the respondents stated that HBV infection is, 21.9% of the participants stated that HIV infection is a blood-borne disease. Regarding the question on the correct use of razor blades and razors, only 10 participants (6.8%) said “I use a new one for each customer”, which was the correct answer. 17.3% of the barbers-hairdressers got injured within the preceding month, and 49% of them within the past one year with sharp objects, such as blades and razors that they used on their customers. 60.1% of them were vaccinated against HBV, and 39.9% of them were not. Conclusion: Barbers’/hairdressers’ knowledge of the blood-borne pathogens is insufficient, and they do not pay adequate attention to protect their customers and themselves. (Viral Hepatitis Journal 2014; 20(2): 67-71)