Profession of barbering: Unexplored issues in HIV/AIDS

BackgroundBarbers are one of the potential high-risk groups due to the increased risk of injuries owing to their profession as well as their exposure to all the sections of the society. Lack of knowledge regarding HIV and appropriate disinfection procedures might provide a fertile ground for propagation of the disease.MethodologyA cross-sectional survey was conducted in Kanpur, India from August to September, 2009 to assess the awareness and practices of shop barbers (SB) and road side barbers (RSB) regarding HIV.ResultsThe mean age group of the barbers was 32.05 ± 11.02 years. Knowledge regarding all the modes of transmission especially blood contact (5.6%) was known to very few RSB. Myths regarding the mode of transmission were rampant. The overall knowledge regarding the disinfection of the instruments (42.8%) and use of new blades (60.6%) was average. Significant differences were observed in the knowledge and practices of the SB and RSB.ConclusionSignificant gap in knowledge and practices were observed in the barbers specially the RSB. Due to the unique position that the barbers enjoy in the society they can be educated regarding HIV and subsequently used as peer educators for impeding the march of HIV.