Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B and C virus infections are serious global health problems. Shaving by barbers and practices at beauty parlors has been identified as the key risk factors for the spread of HBV. Over 2 billion people have been infected with Hepatitis B virus and an estimated 170 million people are chronically infected with the Hepatitis C virus, In Pakistan specific estimates for the prevalence of both disease ranges from 2% to 10%. Objectives of study: To know the awareness regarding transmission of hepatitis B and C among barbers and beauticians To know the practices of barbers and beauticians regarding transmission of hepatitis B and C. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross sectional survey of barbers and beauty parlors in DG Khan city Pakistan in 2014 to establish their knowledge and attitudes to the risk of HBV and HCV transmission and their working patterns. We visited 40 places, cases were selected randomly, all barbers and beauticians were approached, and knowledge was assessed by a pretested questionnaire which was filled up by researchers. Results: Observation showed that 97.5% were their razors after each client with antiseptic. 77.55% use a new blade for every new client. 55% know the disease and 47.5% have knowledge regarding the transmission of disease only 22.5% were vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Strategies are required for raising awareness among barbers and beauty parlors practices.

Keywords: HBV; HCV; Barber; Hepatitis