Barbers’ knowledge and self-reported preventive practices for blood-borne diseases in Kut City, Wasit Governorate, Iraq

Abstract

Objectives: This cross-sectional study assessed knowledge of blood-borne diseases (BBDs) and self-reported preventive practices among barbers working in Kut City, Wasit Governorate, Iraq.

Methods: Between field visits to 56 barber shops in 2023, 159 barbers meeting the inclusion criteria (≥18 years old, ≥6 months’ experience) consented to a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire covering demographics, 21 knowledge items and 21 practice items. Correct responses were scored as 2 and incorrect responses as 1, and the total was converted to a percentage scale. Knowledge and practice scores were categorised as good (≥70%), moderate (50–69%) or poor (<50%).

Results: Overall, the mean knowledge score corresponded to 39% correct answers, placing the cohort in the poor knowledge category; reported adherence to key preventive practices, sterilisation after each client, routine use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and use of disposable blades, was low. Urban residence and higher formal education were significantly associated with better knowledge (χ², p < 0.001), while age and marital status were not.

Conclusion: The findings identify an urgent need for supportive, practical interventions, compulsory infection-control training, access to single-use supplies, promotion of hepatitis B vaccination and reinforced licensing, to protect barbers and their clients and to limit community transmission of vaccine-preventable and treatable infections. Data are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.