General seroprevalence of hepatitis B in Pakistan varies from 2.5%,1 to 5%,2 though there is trend
toward decrease in this infection.3 There are multiple means of transmission and inoculation by
contaminated instruments is an important factor.4,5 Knowledge about this disease6 is important as it has
far reaching implications resulting in hepatocellular carcinoma.7 Although decreasing trend for hepatitis
B has resulted due to from effective vaccination, among other factors,3 there is need of lot more efforts
to contain this deadly virus.
One of the important strategy is to educate masses, thereby limiting the transmission of infection. In
this issue of the journal Chaudhry et al report on knowledge and practice of barbers in suburbs of
Islamabad.8 The report is rather encouraging, showing that nearly 95% participants used new blades for
shaving. However, this cannot be applied to other areas of the country. This area of public education
needs to be emphasized, as educational intervention in barbers has shown promising results.9
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