Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Preventive Measures for Hepatitis B and C Infection among Barbers in SabonGari Local Government Area

Abstract

Background: Viral hepatitis remain a serious public health issue globally especially in the developing world where occupational health and safety regulations are not properly implemented. Barbers in view of the instruments they use daily and the poor knowledge and practice of occupational health and safety measures are at an increased risk for blood borne diseases like hepatitis B and C.
Objectives: To determine the knowledge, attitude and practice of HBV and HCV infections and sterilisation processes among barbers in Sabon Gari LGA, Kaduna state.
Methods: It was a cross sectional descriptive study carried out among barbers.Respondents were selected using systematic sampling technique. A pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the
information from 109 respondents.Knowledge was assessed on a 12 point scale; as poor (0-5), fair (6-8) and good (9-12).
Statistical Analysis: Data was analysed using SPSS version 21.Categorical variables were summarized using frequencies and proportions. Chi-square and Fisher's exact test were applied for the comparison of proportions; with level of significance set at p<0.05.
Results:The study showed that most of the respondents had low level of knowledge regarding the modes of transmission, complications and treatment of hepatitis. There was a statistically significant relationship between level of education and knowledge of hepatitis B and C (P<0.0001). The attitude of barbers towards preventing the spread of hepatitis B and C carrying out the work (via disinfection and sterilisation) was good. There was a statistically significantrelationship between the practice of sterilisation and the educational level of the barbers (P=0.000001).
Conclusion: The poor knowledge and practice scores shown in this study highlight the need to raise awareness on these diseases and ensure compliance with proper preventive practices.