Vol. 1 No. 1 (2013)
Hepatitis B Virus Seroprevalence and Knowledge Assessment Among Traditional Tattoo Practitioners and Recipients in Bamako, Mali: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Traditional tattooing is a common cultural practice in Mali involving skin-piercing, which poses a potential risk for blood-borne pathogen transmission. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is hyperendemic in the country, but specific data linking infection risks to this practice are scarce. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV infection among traditional tattoo practitioners and recipients in Bamako, Mali, and to assess their knowledge of HBV transmission and prevention. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Participants included 150 traditional tattoo practitioners and 200 tattoo recipients, recruited via purposive sampling. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and serological testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The overall HBsAg seroprevalence was 12.9%. Prevalence was significantly higher among practitioners (18.7%) than among recipients (8.5%). Knowledge of HBV transmission was poor; over 70% of participants were unaware the virus could be spread via contaminated tattooing equipment. There is a high burden of HBV infection among traditional tattoo practitioners in Bamako, alongside substantial knowledge gaps regarding transmission. This group constitutes a key population for targeted public health intervention. Integrate traditional tattoo practitioners into national HBV prevention programmes through education on infection control and safe tattooing practices. Consider offering HBV vaccination and screening services within their operating communities. Hepatitis B, seroprevalence, traditional tattooing, knowledge, Mali, blood-borne infections This study provides empirical data on HBV prevalence in a previously understudied high-risk group in Mali and highlights a critical gap in community health education, informing targeted intervention strategies.