Risk of HIV infection: Not in the name of culture

The continuing practice of bare-knuckled fighting among the rural communities in South Africa poses a challenge for the health care workers preventing the transmission of infectious diseases such as Hepatitis C virus, HIV and AIDS. Objective: To investigate the knowledge, attitude and perception of bare-knuckled fighters towards the risk of acquiring HIV infection in rural village of Limpopo Province. Methods: Cross-sectional study of all bare fist fighters attending tournament at Gaba, Tshaulu village of Limpopo Province between December 2008 to January 2009 were recruited. Three calibrated investigators interviewed 165 participants using structured questionnaire. Permission and approval to conduct the research was obtained from Polokwane Campus and the Bare Fist Tournament committee in Tshaulu. Results: 165 fighters aged between 5 to 65 years old were interviewed (mean age was 25 years). Majority of them (53%) were unemployed; 49% were married and 23% were fighting for the first. Nearly all the fighters (98%) did not know their HIV status; 70% were not aware of the risk of HIV infection. Entertainment (65%) and cultural practice (30%) were cited as main reasons for fighting; 21% would consent to HIV testing. Only 10% agreed to the use of boxing gloves and head protector. Conclusion: Lack of the knowledge among fighters on the risk of HIV infection and the continuous practise of bare fist fighting in rural communities pose a serious health risk. Health authorities should take urgent measures to prevent injuries and possible spread of HIV through these practices.