KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES (KAPs) AMONG MALE HAIRDRESSERS TOWARDS HIV/AIDS

*Dr. Mohammed Ismail Humaida Ismail

ABSTRACT

Background: Barbershops can act as potential channels for the transmission of HIV from one customer to another. This can occur when the same blades and trimmers are used by different customers. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of male hairdressers towards HIV/AIDS in El-Obied North Kordofan State. Methodology: This facility based cross-sectional study comprised of 129 male hairdressers, selected by total coverage. Data were collected via questionnaires and observation checklist and the data was analyzed by (SPSS) soft ware. Results: The study concluded that about (76.7%) of male hairdressers know the causative agents of HIV/AIDS. Only (8.5%) of male hairdressers are aware of HIV transmission through sharing of contaminated razors. About (47.3%) of male hairdressers are aware that AIDS is prevented through a voiding contaminated instrument that can pierce the skin. More than half of male hairdressers (59.7%) belief that HIV/AIDS infection is considered stigma and infamy. A large proportion of male hairdressers (93.8%) dispose of razors after their use. About (31.8%) of male hairdressers dispose of razors after used through burial. Less than half of male hairdressers (40.3%) were not sterilizing their instruments. About (20.9%) of hairdressers were using razors for more than one clients. More than half of male hairdressers (66.7%) were not wearing gloves during shaving of hair. While (12.4%) of male hairdressers were practiced sexual intercourse out side the marriage sphere. Conclusion: The study concluded that the practices observed by barbers may favour transmission of HIV and there is a scope for educational intervention.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, male hairdressers, El-Obied, Sudan.