Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Beauty Salon Workers Towards AIDS in Songhor

Iran is one of three countries with two-thirds of new infection AIDS in 2018, reaching 11,000 new infections. Therefore, measuring the awareness and subsequent health behaviors of high-risk groups is essential.

A total of 150 beauty salon workers (BSWs) in Songhor, Kermanshah were randomly selected to participate in this study. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire in four sections (individual questions, knowledge, attitude and practice). Data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics in SPSS 20.

Regarding marital status 80% were married with age distribution of 16-25 (4%), 26-35 (56%) and 36-50 (40%), educational status 48% diploma and 68% of job experience of 1-10 years. Seventy-six percent of BSWs do tattoos for clients, 33% never used disposable razors and 28% disinfected the equipment incorrect. Their knowledge on HIV transmission methods was desirable, however was no significant correlation between knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) (P > 0.05).

Health centers staff played a major role in the training of hairdressers, and in Iran, television and radio is facing serious restrictions on AIDS training and transmission and prevention methods. There is a need for training programs to improve the health behaviors of this high risk group.