A cross-sectional descriptive design was used to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention among barbershops and beauty salons in Mogadishu, Somalia. We found a very low level of knowledge of HIV/AIDs transmission and prevention among the barbershop and beauty salon owners. The low level of knowledge has important ramification to the risk of transmission and spread of the virus. Given that previous studies has shown that the virus can survive on the surfaces of barbing instruments for a period long enough for transmission to occur, particularly in commercial barbing shops. This significantly exposes the operator and client to higher risk of transmission in situations they do not know, and practice recommended prevention practices.
Inadequate disinfection, sharing non-sterile sharp instruments, and accidental cuts are identified as risk factors for HIV transmission in barbering practices. Proper, effective, and consistent decontamination of barbing instruments is important in preventing HIV transmission in barbing shops. Barbers have not been given the needed attention to curb the spread of the disease, and there is little or no training on the standard protocol for barbing, which poses a significant public health concern, especially in regions with high HIV prevalence and limited resources for healthcare.
This study showed that the majority of the barbers are (77%) poor knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention and significant associations between demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among barbers and beauty salons. Participants aged 40 and above have a higher likelihood of having good knowledge compared to participants under 20 years old with secondary education, who have a greater likelihood of having good knowledge than those with non-formal education. This indicates a significant gap in understanding among barbers and beauty salon workers, who play a potential role in disseminating accurate information to their clients. It is crucial to address this lack of knowledge through targeted educational interventions and training programs to improve their understanding of HIV/AIDS. This study has revealed that barbering procedures in Ho municipality, Ghana, showed several significant associations between demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among barbers. Barbers with secondary education were more likely to have good knowledge about HIV/AIDS. These findings underscore the importance of education in shaping barbers' knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS (18). Education is crucial in shaping barbers' knowledge about HIV/AIDS, and interventions to improve awareness and prevention strategies are needed. Regular training programs on decontamination techniques and standard protocols can reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Creating strict regulations and educating barbers on disposable razors and sterilizing reusable instruments can also help. However, the knowledge gap in Somalia, primarily due to limited access to education and skill development opportunities, leads to socioeconomic inequality and hinders progress. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for fostering inclusive and equitable development, empowering individuals to break free from poverty cycles and contribute meaningfully to their communities. A significant correlation was found between education level and knowledge, consistent with previous research in Kumasi, Ghana (19).
The attitudes of the participants were generally poor levels attitude (81%) towards and the association between attitude levels and sociodemographic characteristics among barbers and beauty salons regarding the transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Participants aged 30–39 and above have a higher likelihood of good attitude compared to participants under 20 years old, but this association male is significantly associated with a lower likelihood of having a good attitude compared to being female. Participants with secondary education have a greater likelihood of good attitude than those with Primary and non-formal education. They also show no significant difference in attitude levels compared to those with non-formal education. The AOR (5.4, 95%CI: 0.83–2.35.0). Similar study of conducted Gana shows the attitudes of the participants were generally favorable as the majority of barbers had good attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS(20). Somalia's poor work attitude can negatively affect employee morale and productivity. Employers should foster a positive work environment through open communication, recognition of achievements, and growth opportunities. Regular feedback, team-building activities, professional development, and competitive compensation can boost morale and retain top talent. These are the challenges they are developing, and the same issue the challenges are less formal education(21).some studies are mor emphasizes to the poor attitude Based on a study carried out in South-Western Ethiopia, it was found that most of the barbers in the region had positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS. This suggests that these barbers are likely to have a good understanding of the disease and its impact on their clients and are therefore more likely to provide appropriate and effective services to prevent transmission (22).
The study revealed that a majority of participants (93%) had poor practice in implementing preventive measures for HIV/AIDS. This finding highlights the need for interventions aimed at improving adherence to preventive practices, such as proper sterilization techniques and the use of protective barriers. Training sessions and ongoing support can play a significant role in promoting and sustaining good practices among barbers and beauty salon workers. The study found that barbers in the study area were not using proper prevention practices for HIV/AIDS, leading to micro-trauma during shaving, which can cause HIV transmission. Additionally, contamination of shaving instruments could pose a significant risk to other clients. Therefore, proper disinfection and sterilization methods are crucial. The study found Nagpur City that minor cuts during barbering can lead to the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. This shows that if not properly addressed, it can pose a risk to both the barber and the client(23).
Barbering and beauty salone procedures are gaining concern due to potential risks of HIV and other bloodborne and skin diseases transmission. It is important to increase awareness, training, and regulation to minimize the risk of HIV transmission in barbering practices. One way to do this is by providing regular training programs for barbers on proper decontamination techniques and standard protocols. This can greatly reduce the risk of HIV transmission in barbering practices. It is also essential to establish strict regulations and guidelines for barbershops to ensure consistent adherence to these practices, especially in regions with limited healthcare resources. To achieve this, comprehensive educational programs should be implemented for barbers, emphasizing the importance of proper decontamination techniques and the use of disposable instruments when necessary. Additionally, regular inspections and enforcement of hygiene standards in barbershops can help ensure compliance with best practices and minimize the risk of HIV transmission. Efforts should also be made to educate barbers on the importance of using disposable razors and sterilizing reusable instruments properly. Regular testing and screening for HIV among barbers can help identify potential cases early on and prevent further transmission within the community.