Asthma Knowledge and Behaviors among Hairdressing Salon Employees in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess asthma knowledge among salon employees and to examine their behaviors toward protective devices. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted between July and September 2016. Thirty-five salons were randomly selected of the 785 salons in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 160 employees were interviewed using the Chicago Community Asthma Survey to assess their knowledge about asthma and their behaviors in response to chemicals in the workplace. Results: The participants’ mean age was 34 years; 28% of participants were hairdressers. Moreover, 30% of employees only possessed adequate knowledge about asthma. Education level (p = 0.044), Saudi nationality (p = 0.003), and a family history of asthma (p = 0.008) were significantly related to knowledge level. Further, a significant gap was noted between employees’ knowledge of the benefits of masks and gloves and the practice of wearing these devices while working. Conclusions: Asthma knowledge among most salon employees was inadequate, and a significant gap was found between employees’ knowledge and practice. Pre-employment education programs about asthma are recommended and may enhance the knowledge levels among this group of workers. In addition, future research directed to further understanding the gap between employees’ knowledge levels of the benefits of masks and gloves, and their actual implementation at work, is needed. Efforts are required to bridge this gap to protect employees in the workplace.