Knowledge of Safety Practices among Barbers on Hepatitis B & C Transmission in Madina

Abstract

To make a fine gentleman, several trades are required chiefly, a barber. The contraction of infections from barbershops remain a largely unaddressed and underestimated route of disease infection. Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C have been established among some barbers in Kumasi and Obuasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana whereas the prevalence rate of the diseases in other parts of the country and other areas call for more attention than is currently offered. This study employed a qualitative research approach with the use of a structured interview guide through in-depth interviews with participants to provide exhaustive knowledge of twenty purposively selected barbers in Madina on health safety practices in their profession with focus on Hepatitis B and C transmission. Data were grouped into themes and emerging patterns were discussed. The study revealed that majority of barbers knew how Hepatitis B & C were transmitted however, the participants were not stringent in ensuring that their customers were protected from contracting the diseases in their shops. It is recommended that people who patronize barbershops consider acquiring their personal full shaving kit and insist on barbers’ adherence to strict health safety measures to prevent disease contraction and promote good health of the general public.